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Evidence Collection Tools To evaluate suspect conditions, we review documentation, perform visual inspections, and if necessary, conduct destructive testing. The investigative process is one of discovery. Our clients have recognized a problem, but often do not know the nature or extent. During the investigative phase, we first acquaint ourselves with the population of possible conditions we will be investigating. We accomplish this by reviewing project plans, specifications, building permits, and contracts. We then consult with our client and propose a scope of investigation which matches their needs.
Where possible, we will inspect all locations of suspect
conditions. However, it is often impossible or impractical to
visually inspect; for instance, all two hundred dwelling units
in a project, or to water test all 2,000 windows. In these
cases, we inspect a representative sampling. The results of
investigations in the sample units may then be projected to the
remaining units. The degree of certainty associated with the
projections is based upon mathematical models. R.W. James &
Associates often retains the services of a statistician to
assist us in our sampling models to assure that the process
is appropriate to the project and problem.
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