Learning from Collapse: Forensic Lessons from the Field

In this session, forensic structural engineer Peter Marxhausen, M.S., P.E., F.SEI, draws from his 30-year career of investigating building collapses to present ten real-world case studies. Each case study will highlight technical insights, legal implications, and preventable errors. Anchored by a detailed structural failure of an unoccupied alpine cabin that collapsed under snow loads despite being properly designed, the presentation explores broader themes of design assumptions, construction-phase vulnerabilities, inspection gaps, improper maintenance, and communication breakdowns. Attendees will examine how structural engineers are viewed by attorneys, insurers, and courts in determining liability. These conversations often involve questions of whether to sue an engineer and what basis. With each case, the audience will reflect on how their role as engineer, advisor, or expert can better anticipate, mitigate, or defend against failure. While structural collapses captivate public curiosity, the underlying driver for many professionals is simpler: avoid causing damage, avoid becoming a defendant, and avoid being sued.