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Forensic Tile Evaluation
What is a Forensic Tile Evaluation?
A forensic tile evaluation is an in-depth, hands-on investigation of a suspected tile failure, used when the assembly likely needs partial or total replacement and the cause needs to be documented and proven, not just assessed. This is the evaluation type that typically supports a legal claim or expert witness report.
When this option makes sense
Active or anticipated litigation, insurance claims, a failure serious enough that removal/destructive testing is warranted, or a case where accountability (installer, manufacturer, design) needs to be determined rather than just described.
What's Included
On-site inspection, documentation review (installer records, product data, maintenance history), interviews with parties involved, photographic documentation of the failure, and evaluation against ANSI Standards, TCNA Guidelines, and The NTCA Reference Manual.
What You Receive
A written forensic report suitable for deposition or trial: findings, standard-of-care analysis, cause determination, and supporting photos.
Ongoing Availability by Retainer
Once the report is complete, Michael is available by retainer to continue on the matter through deposition, mediation, arbitration, or trial — so the same expert who investigated the failure is the one testifying to it.
Failures Forensic Evaluations Uncover
Two installation practices account for a large share of the tile failures Michael is brought in to investigate:
The Miami Sandwich. Michael has helped bring national attention to this issue as a contributor to the NTCA 2025/2026 Reference Manual, which now specifically addresses why it's a practice — not an accepted method.
Spot Bonding. Michael has provided expert witness testimony at trial specifically on this practice.
Both practices can look like a normal installation on the surface, which is exactly why a forensic evaluation — rather than a visual walkthrough alone — is often needed to confirm what's actually behind the tile.
Non-Intrusive vs. Forensic Evaluation
The bottom line is that a forensic evaluation is far more revealing. However, sometimes whether it's the timing, practicality, or any other unforeseen reason, non-intrusive makes more sense. Speak with Mike and he will give you guidance so you make the best decision among these services.
Let’s work together, A virtual meeting is almost always the best place to start.
Get in touch so we can start working together. The initial virtual consultation is $125. A pay schedule for all of Michael's services will be emailed to you.