Surfside

[Patch]

Having been in construction a life time and having been involve both in planning small and large projects; these engineering perspectives are of great interest to me. Since this collapse I have had my mind on a condo project I build some 2 decades ago, oh brother EH.

 

[Marcarl]

Interesting for sure

[larrydr]

I am a general contractor /shop door installer/repair ..I have never had to tackle builds that size ...Often when called to access door & walls to repair , I have  to report and I keep wondering  who built this and why were none of the standards met as to code ...I realize that the regulations/codes have changed from the 1960's to now ...But why was no one checking these things .

[djh3]

Initial video had me wondering to start with. It looked extremely like one of those implosion deals. Then the other day this video shows up. Looks like it was falling apart and pieces fell down and pipes broke and its all down hill from there. You see the pics the pool contractor published a few days before?

[Patch]

In my experience complacency is the biggest factor.

Last night when I was walking around the club I walked over to a part of the center I hadn't been in a long while. I see the North/West side corner of the build wall has had many re pointing repairs done to it. None of which were professionally executed. That work was a waste of money. We have had a couple of down pores here after weeks of crazy heat waves. The exterior walls are completely saturated and of course the concrete upper foundation wall is spalling the rebar  is this with rust. I haven't concern of major collapse but certain much of the large brick will bulge then fall.

I put tougher a plan some years back for a large shopping center in another city for structural work as well as modernizing the exterior. The developer hired a new property manager after submitting the project turn everything upside down.

I walk for the project at that moment, years into it they have more mess on there hands now then at the start. The property will likely be sold at a loss to the investment group. So goes to show you the process can get pretty messed up by the unknowing serving.

At least 2 more buildings are now condemned in Miami this week, is it clear to anybody why now, how old were the reports. Complacency. 

[djh3]

I suspect there is some big changes in the future down there. I read 2 stories about the fellow that built those 2 towers. There was lots of innuendo of greasing of palms. Mostly having to do with permits and time delays. But if those are overlooked, whats to say an inspector could be shown to the concrete that "meets" specs while some other maybe suspect.

[bpate4home]

11 hours ago, djh3 said:

I suspect there is some big changes in the future down there. I read 2 stories about the fellow that built those 2 towers. There was lots of innuendo of greasing of palms. Mostly having to do with permits and time delays. But if those are overlooked, whats to say an inspector could be shown to the concrete that "meets" specs while some other maybe suspect.

It wouldn't surprise me.  I've had inspectors come out and say 'the process could be easier' and that was on low voltage cabling for things like networks and security systems. I actually had to report one inspector demanding requirements well above code after I told him 'I'm sure it would, but it's not going to happen'. 

Edited July 6, 2021 by bpate4home

[Patch]

Well I have worked across this country since the late 60's

My insights into large projects was gift to me by a building inspector that showed an interest during his off hours.

Since that was in the 80's and I as mentioned continued to work across the country I have met the odd one that either thru arrogance or in disagreement with standards (Canada still leads building code requirements) has bumped into one of my english efforts to their superiors. I can't recall a time that a proper didn't soon decision followed.

The inspectors responsibility is to perform due diligence in accordance with the approved drawings and stamps that are on record for the project permit.

In most not all we have a stamped approved in good standing safety, architect or engineer for each schedule of the project. They are not to be argued with by building inspectors, period.

Structural of any kind in this country must be drawn by and stamped by engineering. He must approve of the methods, products and environment their engineered instructions are follow.

Here why: due diligence for his license, insurance and every stake holder of the property. The inspector has to abide by this rule. The only exceptions that come to mind is if there is a amendment to the permit or that one schedule effects another schedules liability or the neighboring properties.        

[Patch]

Personally I think the people and the courts are moving in the right direction.

You'll note that past contractors are not immune to liability back 10 years.

Many many times I have expressed that our ability to remain in business revolves around our ability to remain insured as a business. All our work was done above board documented and shared responsibility with like mind professionals. Each one of the contractors had to have proof of knowledge and coverage in the field for which they bid.

Sub contractors are the backbone of construction. I have never known a sub trade to be held liable for 10 years though. Product manufactures yes.

There is a kink in the maintenance repair work in this case that has been documented and will generate leverage! Epoxy when miss used  in concrete repair is both common and misunderstood. It can not be used just anywhere. Nor is it a substitute for approved concrete repair or restoration work without following procedures; on this all the certified manufacturers are covered.

Who isn't covered are those that were under contract to manage and approve the repair work on behalf of the owner or charter.

This is going to be industry shaking by the time it concludes and, will have far reaching effect across our boarders.

 

Edited July 7, 2021 by Patch