cfi - investigator services
origin & cause
We offer specialized expertise to systematically investigate the origin and cause of fire scenes, both residential and commercial, of all sizes, as well as explosion and post-blast scenes. We use the scientific method and adhere to principles outlined in NFPA 921 and NFPA 1033, which establishes the minimum requirements needed to be considered an expert. Our investigators meet and exceed these requirements.
We have extensive training and experience in the science of fire and how building construction, ventilation, fuel loading, and firefighting tactics affect fire development and progression. We have the capability to explain what happened in a common sense, non-technical manner that a layperson or jury can understand.
FIRE CODE CONSULTING
Our fire code consulting provides technical expertise for your construction project to proceed through the plan review and permitting procedure with minimal delays. We will assist you in navigating the complex regulatory process and the interpretations of codes, standards, and requirements. We also advise on fire and building code alternate materials and methods of construction to meet Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements. We offer post-fire building analysis to identify fire code deficiencies involving building construction, occupancy use, and fire protection systems.
expert witness, case review, trial prep
We offer consultations or expert opinions required for ongoing investigations or litigation. GPI offers expertise to process, analyze, and organize data in any investigation or case file. We can assist you in determining the feasibility of a case based upon proven scientific analysis and experience, and can assist in determining what steps may need to be taken to bring the case to a successful conclusion. We offer trial preparation, pretrial witness interviews, needs assessment for exhibits, lines of questioning, depositions, and more.
We offer our clients strong experience and professionalism in working with attorneys and preparing for and testifying as a primary expert witness, consulting expert, or third-party expert in Federal and State court proceedings. Whether it is expertise needed regarding a small or large fire scene, residential or commercial, or at an explosion or post blast scene, we can provide our clients with the kind of expertise that comes from years of training and experience gained from working with the world’s foremost experts in fire science and fire protection engineering, electrical engineering, and chemistry.
EVIDENCE STORAGE, DRONe, MATTERPORT
We offer secure evidence handling, storage, and security using a proper chain of custody and the most up-to-date handling and storage methods.
We are FAA Certified to deploy UAV’s (drones) allowing us to provide high-resolution aerial photographs of the fire scene.
We use the Matterport camera system, which provides virtual reality fire scene walk-throughs. See an example by clicking here.
“THE CFI’S AT GPI are extremely experienced and have investigated over a billion dollars of property damage in their careers.”
— Dan P.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin and cause investigation process?
We follow the scientific method as outlined in NFPA 921. This is the industry standard for qualified expert certified fire investigators. The scientific method for a fire or explosion scene is a systematic approach outlined as follows: identify the need (a fire or explosion to investigate for origin and cause); define the need (a proper fire or explosion scene investigation); collect data; analyze the data; develop hypotheses; test the hypotheses; select the final hypotheses or identify the need to collect more data, analyze the data, etc.Are you qualified to testify as an expert witness in state and federal courts?
Yes, we meet all the qualifications necessary to testify in state and federal court. We prepare official reports following the Federal Rules of Procedure, Rule 26.What does a case review entail?
Depending on your state of litigation, we can review opposing expert reports, evaluate your position, recommend discovery requests, and line of questions for depositions. Since we have experience in criminal investigation, we are able to evaluate the nature and extent of the investigation presented at court.What does a fire code consultant do?
An experienced code consultant will assist you in complying with and interpreting commercial construction and design requirements in the fire codes and standards. Investing in a fire code consultant early in a project will help ensure a smooth progression through the review and permitting process. Additionally, a fire code consultant can review post-fire incidents for code compliance.