Marx Okubo was engaged to help this client with a property condition assessment, engineering and project management services for two buildings that have settled more than one foot over a ten-year period, due to consolidation of organic soils. As previous efforts to mitigate settlement were unsuccessful, and prior engineering evaluations to consider additional settlement were inconclusive, Marx Okubo assembled a team of geotechnical engineers, structural engineers and MEP engineers to evaluate the subgrade and building systems affected by settlement.

As a priority, this team of experts implemented a comprehensive monitoring program to ensure the safety of the structure and critical building systems. In addition, the team provided short-term and long-term forecasts for additional settlement; developed plans and budgets to stabilize the buildings with underpinning; and prepared specifications for repair programs to address structural deficiencies and to improve the safety of MEP and structural systems. Marx Okubo’s holistic approach allowed the owner to quantify risks and make informed decisions while maintaining a safe environment for occupants.