Maria Martinez

Senior Associate/Diagnostics

Practice Areas

Maria is an accomplished forensic structural engineer recognized for her expertise in structural assessments, roofing evaluations, and failure analysis. With expertise in residential and commercial structures throughout the Pacific Northwest and Florida, she applies a comprehensive and methodical approach to determine the cause and origin of structural distress, construction defects, water intrusion, and storm-related damage. Her work integrates technical analysis, field investigation, code compliance evaluation, and litigation support to assist property owners, attorneys, insurance carriers, and design professionals in making informed decisions. Through a commitment to technical excellence and practical problem-solving, Maria delivers objective, defensible opinions founded on engineering principles and industry standards.

Experience

Maria is a forensic structural engineer specializing in the investigation of structural failures, roofing system performance, water intrusion, construction defects, seismic evaluations and storm-related property damage. She has conducted hundreds of field investigations involving residential, and commercial properties throughout the Pacific Northwest and Florida. Her experience includes evaluating structural components, roofing assemblies, exterior wall systems, foundations, balconies, stairs, as well as assessing compliance with applicable building codes, construction documents, and industry standards. In addition to her forensic consulting practice, Maria provides expert witness services and litigation support involving construction defect claims, property damage disputes, and professional standard-of-care matters. She has prepared engineering reports, rebuttal analyses, and repair recommendations for complex projects and has supported attorneys through deposition and arbitrations. Her expertise combines detailed field observations, engineering analysis, and a thorough understanding of construction practices to deliver clear, technically sound conclusions in both pre-litigation and litigation environments.

Education

B.S., Civil Engineering, Florida International University
M.S., Structural Engineering, Stanford University