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Waterfront High-Rise

Project Overview

  • Type: Forensic / Structural Engineering
  • Client:
  • Location: Key Biscayne, FL

This waterfront high-rise, located on Biscayne Boulevard overlooking Biscayne Bay, sustained significant damage during Hurricane Irma. G.M. Selby was engaged to perform a forensic engineering inspection to evaluate the building’s structural integrity, envelope, and critical systems. The assessment ensured the property’s safety, habitability, and capacity to withstand future loading conditions.

Project Background

The high-rise is a prominent residential building on the Biscayne Bay waterfront. Following Hurricane Irma, residents and owners required a thorough evaluation of storm-related damage to identify safety risks and guide restoration. The project focused on assessing structural performance under hurricane-induced forces, providing critical insight for repairs and future resilience.

Inspection Methods & Analytical Approach

Comprehensive Visual Assessments

On-site visual inspections were performed across all affected areas to identify signs of distress, material deterioration, and surface-level structural concerns.
01

Advanced NDT & Thermography Scans

Infrared thermography and complementary non-destructive testing methods were used to detect hidden moisture, concealed defects, and subsurface damage.
02

Load-Bearing Structural Evaluation

Critical structural components were examined to assess their current condition, performance capacity, and ability to support ongoing operational loads.
03

Data Compilation & Engineering Analysis

All inspection findings were consolidated and analyzed to develop targeted repair strategies that ensure long-term safety and structural reliability.
04

Scope of Work

G.M. Selby provided comprehensive forensic engineering services, including:

  • Inspection of the building envelope and affected residential units
  • Assessment of the pool, roof, parking garage, and common areas
  • Identification of structural deficiencies resulting from uplift and cyclic forces
  • Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), including infrared thermography, to verify internal conditions
  • Analysis of structural capacity to determine safety and ability to withstand future loads
Waterfront High-Rise

Project Significance

This forensic engineering inspection was critical for ensuring the safety, integrity, and habitability of a waterfront high-rise following Hurricane Irma. G.M. Selby’s assessment enabled informed decisions for repairs, maintenance, and future storm resilience, providing owners and residents with confidence in the building’s structural performance and long-term durability.