Independent forensic investigation and sworn expert testimony for construction defect disputes throughout California. Our forensic analysis follows the evidence and applicable standards — serving plaintiff and defense counsel with equal rigor.

Danliv, Inc. • 696 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Ste. 290, Danville CA 94526 • (925) 434-5154 • danlivinc.com
CA Licenses: B & C10 #1124663 • C20 HVAC #1143603 • Alarm QM ACQ6091 • Plaintiff & Defense Counsel

Construction defect litigation in California is governed by a distinct body of statutes and common law that an expert witness must understand thoroughly — because the applicable legal standard shapes what forensic analysis is relevant and how opinions must be framed.

For new residential construction sold after January 1, 2003, SB 800 establishes specific, codified functionality standards for building components — roofing, foundations, plumbing, electrical, mechanical systems, and more. Claims under SB 800 require a pre-litigation notice and repair process before suit can be filed, and expert analysis must evaluate components against the statute’s enumerated standards rather than — or in addition to — general negligence principles.

For commercial construction, older residential properties, and claims not fully addressed by SB 800, California common law provides overlapping theories of recovery. Negligence claims require expert analysis of the applicable standard of care and deviation from it. Breach of contract claims focus on whether construction met the plans, specifications, and contract documents.

Danliv provides integrated forensic and litigation support at every stage of a construction defect matter — from initial case triage through trial.

Our forensic work spans residential, commercial, and public works construction across California.

• Water intrusion and building envelope failures — roofing, flashing, waterproofing, cladding, stucco
• Structural deficiencies — foundations, framing, shear walls, beam support
• MEP system defects — HVAC, electrical code violations, plumbing failures, fire suppression
• Building code and Title 24 violations at time of construction
• CSLB contractor licensing violations (Bus. & Prof. Code § 7031)
• Construction management and standard of care failures
• Soils, grading, and site work defects
• Solar and energy system defects — PV, BESS, electrical interconnection
• Multi-family and HOA construction defects — common areas and units

Danliv accepts construction defect expert witness engagements from attorneys and parties on all sides of a dispute.

Danliv accepts engagements from both plaintiff and defense counsel in construction defect matters. Every opinion is traceable to a documented fact, an applicable standard, or a cited authority. This independence is the foundation of expert testimony that survives vigorous cross-examination and carries credibility with judges, juries, and arbitrators.

A construction defect expert witness inspects and analyzes allegedly defective construction, evaluates compliance with applicable codes and the standard of care, prepares written expert reports, and provides sworn testimony at deposition, arbitration, or trial. Their role is to translate complex technical issues into clear, accurate analysis that a judge, jury, or arbitrator can understand and apply.

New residential construction sold after January 1, 2003 is primarily governed by Civil Code §§ 895–945.5 (SB 800 / the Right to Repair Act). Commercial construction and older residential projects are typically pursued under common law theories of negligence, breach of contract, and strict liability. The California Building Code, Title 24, and CSLB licensing requirements establish the standards against which construction is measured in both contexts.

As early as possible — ideally before any repairs have been made to the subject property. Early retention allows the expert to inspect original conditions, participate in joint inspections under CCP § 2034, and help counsel develop technically informed discovery strategy. Conditions remediated before inspection are significantly harder to evaluate.

Yes. Our forensic opinions are grounded in site evidence and applicable industry standards — not in the preferred narrative of the retaining party. This objectivity is the foundation of credible testimony that withstands cross-examination.

Initial consultations are confidential and available at no charge. Please have your expert designation deadline and a brief description of the disputed construction ready when you call or write.