"In the engineering and construction industry, failure is a term that is commonly used to describe a situation when a component of a structure or the structure as a whole cannot perform its intended functions.  Failures can be due to deferred maintenance as well as design or construction errors. Forensic engineers who explain how and why failures occur. With the right detective work and appropriate recommendations on their part, structures can be repaired giving them a longer life while providing owners a better return on their investment..."