The Importance of Objective Cause & Origin Inspections | General Forensic
- Nelson Salazar
- Apr 27
- 2 min read

Success in Litigation Starts With the Right Evidence
In the realm of property damage claims and litigation, success is grounded in verifiable evidence, not assumptions. At General Forensic Engineers, our Cause & Origin inspections are driven by data, maintain objectivity, and are designed to support litigation. We adhere to a primary principle: our conclusions are guided by the evidence, not by the party that engages our services.
Whether you are pursuing a claim or defending against one, starting with a defensible forensic inspection can make the difference between winning and losing.
Why Objective Cause & Origin Inspections Matter
Most cases falter because initial inspections are based on assumptions:
Was the damage truly storm-related?
Did it occur when claimed?
Is there supporting data?
At General Forensic Engineers, we focus on:
Independence — We base conclusions on facts, not client expectations.
Data Collection — Detailed field inspections, weather analysis, and material evaluations.
Court-Ready Documentation — We prepare every report assuming it may face deposition or cross-examination.
When attorneys need reports that withstand scrutiny in mediation, deposition, or trial, they trust our process.
What Is a Cause & Origin Inspection?
A Cause & Origin inspection identifies:
The type of damage event (e.g., wind, hail, water intrusion, or long-term deterioration)
The timing of the event using storm data, moisture patterns, and historical imagery
The nature of the damage (sudden and accidental vs. long-term and excluded by policy)
Our inspections include:
Complete roof, structure, and interior visual analysis
Thermal imaging inspections
Drone-based photographic documentation
Historical weather analysis from NOAA and private weather stations
Cause-of-loss determination consistent with national standards (Haag, InterNACHI, and ASTM)
Each report is structured to support legal arguments with objective evidence, not subjective opinion.
Why Attorneys, Public Adjusters, and Property Managers Trust Our Reports
Choosing General Forensic Engineers means choosing:
Defensibility: Reports that hold up under cross-examination.
Consistency: Standardized methodologies applied across every case.
Transparency: Easy-to-follow narratives backed by verifiable data and images.
Starting early with an objective forensic inspection helps secure a strong negotiating position and protects your case through trial.
Evidence-First Inspections You Can Rely On
At General Forensic Engineers, we do not create narratives. We create factual records, allowing the evidence to tell the true story.
Whether you represent an individual homeowner, a condominium association, or an insurance company, you can trust that our Cause & Origin inspections are independent, verifiable, and court-ready.

Learn more about our Litigation Support Services, call us at (305) 317-0854