Braithwaite, LA
DBI was called to provide loss measurement when a flood damaged a massive chemical bulk storage facility following Hurricane Isaac. With trademark skill and exacting evaluations, the DBI team quickly developed a deep-seated knowledge of this variegated property, which included 70 storage tanks, ship docking stations, a railroad yard, tech systems, and a complicated network of 20 miles of interconnected pipes. In addition to the active facility, an expansion project had been in progress at the time of the loss event, with that infrastructure also heavily impacted by the storm. The approximate project value exceeded $50M.
Project Clerking & Monitoring
Industrial & Energy
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
A New Year’s Eve fire engulfed a 990-foot-tall skyscraper in the heart of Dubai. Upon request, DBI mobilized an on-site team. By setting up temporary offices in Dubai, DBI was able to effectively inspect the building, quantify the extent of the damages, and determine repair costs. Our analysis included cost benefit studies for various repair options and a building valuation/replacement cost model. Mere months after the loss event, DBI's clients had achieved a resolution of the property damage insurance claim with the building’s owners.
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Emergency Services Cost Management
Hospitality
Westlake, LA
Hurricane Laura caused significant storm and fire-related damage to a 200-acre chemical manufacturing facility in Louisiana. A complicated road lay ahead; DBI led the way forward, preparing detailed ACV and RCV repair estimates for this enormous and structurally diverse site. Through comprehensive inspection and research, the team identified age, functionality, and damage to all 119 affected buildings and created an innovative site plan, all key components in helping the client move the claim toward resolution. Total estimated repair cost was $27M.
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Emergency Services Cost Management
Industrial
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
DBI conducted damage assessments and cost estimates after Hurricane Odile tore into one of the world’s largest recreational marinas off the Pacific Coast of Mexico, consisting of 380 slips that house vessels up to 375 feet. Our team conducted thorough condition assessments of floating walkways, rip-rap barriers, and marine support buildings, and solicited bids from maritime specialty contractors around the globe for these extensive and highly unique repairs. The project’s estimated value is $20M.
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Emergency Services Cost Management
Marine
Dorado, PR
DBI mobilized its team of construction, MEP, elevator and landscaping consultants to Dorado, Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. Our team determined a full scope of repairs and developed a groundbreaking interactive report, transcending the traditional printed version and providing the client click-and-navigate site maps and key summaries to crucial information. Our integrating practices enabled DBI to tackle this complex challenge head-on: over 1,400 acres of 5-star resort property containing bespoke architecture, landscaping, fountains, and irrigation systems. In just 10 months, a real property amount of nearly $22 million dollars was agreed upon, with DBI’s performance and attention to detail commended.
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Emergency Services Cost Management
Hospitality
St. John, USVI
The Westin St. John Resort Villas sustained extensive damage following Hurricanes Irma and Maria. DBI was assigned to inspect, scope, and estimate the cost to repair the 47-acre resort. DBI analyzed all incurred project costs for the 250 timeshare villas and for amenities that included a conference center, restaurant, and pool. The approximate project value exceeded $105M.
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Emergency Services Cost Management
Hospitality
Waterbury, VT
In the aftermath of Hurricane Irene, DBI performed damage evaluations and developed cost estimates for 47 commercial buildings located in the historic, state-owned Waterbury Complex. As these structures ranged over a century in age and in methods of construction, DBI drew upon the diverse experience of team members to determine loss-related damages, develop rough order of magnitude (ROM) estimates, along with replacement cost calculations, and RCV and ACV repair figures. The approximate project value was $20M.
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Emergency Services Cost Management
Project Clerking & Monitoring
Scheduling & Delay Analysis
Municipal
Villach, Austria
A fire severely damaged 10,000 square meters of production and office space in an Austrian industrial plant. DBI was a key part of an international team that provided estimates for as-was repairs, code upgrades and a detailed construction schedule. With extensive experience in the European market, DBI was able to determine appropriate construction costs and verify applicable ordinance and law requirements, A&E calculations, and application of VAT taxes, assisting the insuring market in the arrival of a fair settlement amount. The approximate project value was €45M.
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Scheduling & Delay Analysis
Industrial
Southampton, NY
DBI was brought in as the building consultant to clerk emergency services and measure damage to a 45,000 square foot Southampton luxury residence following a pipe burst. This highly specialized property contained many amenities, including 16 bathrooms, an indoor basketball court, a bowling alley, and a wine cellar. DBI’s skilled monitoring, accuracy and transparency in reportage were crucial in bringing the parties to reach a settled figure: The initial claimed amount exceeded $2.6M; following multiple meetings and expert clerking on DBI’s part, the final agreed-upon figure was $1.5M.
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Project Clerking & Monitoring
Residential
New York, NY
Since 2014, DBI has been the building claim consultant of choice for NYU, one of the largest property owners in New York City. DBI has consulted on over 30 projects with the university for their vast network of hospitals, educational and habitational facilities and commercial spaces. DBI was retained to evaluate the builder’s risk claim for the high-profile construction of the Langone Hospital Kimmel Pavilion. Despite extensive fire damage to the curtain wall, it was imperative that the project begin on time, given NYU’s role as provider of crucial health care services. DBI was front and center throughout, keeping all schedules on track with accurate analysis, regular site inspections and proposal reviews, and curating a network of specialty contractors to ensure best practices. The team’s tireless efforts were instrumental for the renovations to commence on the necessary timetable.
Builder’s Risk Claim Analysis
Damage Evaluation
Desk Review
Project Clerking & Monitoring
Scheduling & Delay Analysis
Commercial, Educational, Habitational & Healthcare
Duryea, PA
After a devastating fire, DBI worked extensively to determine scope of demolition and salvageable equipment for a major specialized glass manufacturer. Returning to production was paramount: stoppage was affecting first-class clients, vital projects and racking up quotidian costs. The team, aware of the gravity of the situation, established a temporary satellite office and led daily meetings to present their findings, a key factor in gauging the duration of this $50M project. DBI created a very strong work culture with the adjusting team - so much so that two subcontractors eventually joined our Chicago office in leadership positions.
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Emergency Services Cost Management
Project Clerking & Monitoring
Industrial
Naugatuck, Connecticut
For a collapsed bridge in Connecticut, the DBI team conducted a comprehensive damage assessment and outlaid the scope of repair, a project schedule, and repair pricing. DBI expedited bridge structure demolition by utilizing ground-level equipment rather than small, bridge-level equipment. This fast-tracked schedule resulted in savings of both duration and cost. The approximate project value was $185K.
Builder's Risk Claim Analysis
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Scheduling & Delay Analysis
Infrastructure
Adger, AL
An 11-story coal processing structure was left listing after a tornado. DBI was assigned to prepare an independent cost estimate to implement a very complex structural methodology for its straightening and repair. The team channeled their innovation and expertise to demonstrate how this intricate plan could be executed by creating a comprehensive construction schedule quantifying the duration of the project, along with estimates for labor, crew and material for these highly specialized techniques. The approximate project value was over $2.5M.
Cost Estimation
Peer Review
Scheduling & Delay Analysis
Industrial
East Rutherford, NJ
A snowstorm caused a partial roof and wall collapse at the Meadowlands Snowpark in New Jersey. DBI was brought in to assess damages and create cost estimates for the repairs. The DBI team also reviewed the costs of installing snow diverters, as required by the state of New Jersey and local building codes. The revamped structure serves as an indoor ski slope for patrons of the American Dream Complex in East Rutherford, NJ. The approximate claimed amount is $29M.
Builder’s Risk Claim Analysis
Code Analysis
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Scheduling & Delay Analysis
Entertainment
Panama City, FL
Following Hurricane Michael, DBI provided a loss measurement in response to wind and water damage to 3 adjacent apartment complexes, totaling nearly 1 million square feet and affecting more than 80 separate structures. DBI conducted detailed inspections and repair estimates for 868 apartment units, building exteriors, landscaping, and code-required upgrades. Using actual costs from projects in the same area, DBI was able to verify appropriate costs and profit margins, a key component in reaching a fair settlement. The approximate project value was $90M.
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Scheduling & Delay Analysis
Habitational
New Orleans, LA
Due to severe flooding and winds caused by Hurricane Katrina, over 140 structures and infrastructure items were damaged at this famed amusement park. Conditions were further impacted by the site remaining untreated due to Katrina’s unforeseen extremity and resultant limited resources. DBI developed a meticulous replacement cost calculation for the entire park; a segregation of damages for an immense scope of rides, structures, restaurants, and outbuildings; and a scheduling and startup analysis was created. The approximate project value exceeded $40M.
Cost Estimation
Damage Evaluation
Scheduling & Delay Analysis
Entertainment
Atlanta, GA
Chicago, IL
Dallas, TX
Denver, CO
Detroit, MI
Los Angeles, CA
Miami, Florida
Director, Marine Practice Leader & Miami Branch Manager
New York, NY
Partner, Managing Director & Northeast Region Leader
Orlando, FL
Philadelphia, PA
Partner, Managing Director & Northeast Region Leader
Birmingham, AL
Boston, MA
Partner, Managing Director & Northeast Region Leader
Houston, TX
Las Vegas, NV
Charleston, SC
Little Rock, AR
Memphis, TN
Minneapolis, MN
Nashville, TN
New Orleans, LA
Panama City, FL
Pittsburgh, PA
Sacramento, CA
Washington, D.C.
Partner, Managing Director & Northeast Region Leader
Wichita, KS
Louisville, KY
Spokane, WA
San Antonio, TX
Senior Director, San Antonio Branch Manager
Partner, Managing Director & West Region Leader
As Managing Director, Michael is critical to the execution of our work, overseeing the perpetually moving pieces of our projects and teams company-wide. He leads by example, always with an eye toward building a positive culture and motivating our offices and people to excel.
Michael’s 25 years in the industry lands him at the intersection of the insurance and construction worlds. He has worked on all levels of property loss matters in a wide array of industries, including manufacturing, educational, hospitality, and habitational.
Michael’s experience in working on complex commercial claims both as a building consultant and as a former National General Adjuster gives him unique insight into the needs of all parties. With his extensive expertise in managing a network of teams, concurrent complex projects, as well as coordinating and overseeing work during high-volume CAT events, Michael ensures that DBI delivers a premier experience for both our people and our clients.
Partner, Director of Finance & Operations
Alex has been a key contributor to DBI’s growth through his operational expertise, financial acumen, and unwavering support for our people, empowering them to deliver top-notch solutions that meet clients’ needs. For over a decade, he has tackled complex operational tasks, developed new systems, managed team members, and provided invaluable financial oversight, all of which have been instrumental in driving DBI’s success.
In his dual role at DBI, Alex assumes responsibility for a broad range of crucial operational and financial functions, including special initiatives that require additional attention to ensure their successful completion. During his tenure, Alex has spearheaded a comprehensive overhaul of DBI's business policies and procedures, without sacrificing the positive employee experience that has long been synonymous with the DBI brand.
Alex’s expertise in navigating complex problems and delivering the necessary results has earned him a reputation for providing exceptional service to both employees and clients alike.
Partner, Midwest Region Leader
With characteristic drive, vision and energy, Nick has not only grown our Chicago office but expanded DBI’s presence and reputation throughout the entire Midwest Region. Nick’s team spirit and values, coupled with his keen eye for identifying talent and new strategic opportunities, keeps morale high and team members empowered to strive for excellence.
With over 20 years in the industry, complex projects are Nick’s specialty. His general contracting and restoration background provides insider experience that’s key in resolving issues and understanding the unique processes and challenges of this sector. When it comes to strategizing approach and overseeing the myriad details, scheduling, and multi-player teams that comprise all large and intricate jobs, Nick is absolutely in his element.
Recent projects include Avondale Marine, a 260-acre shipyard with over 90 existing structures, and Host Hotels, a vast portfolio of resorts and hotels impacted by Hurricane Ian.
Partner, Mid-Atlantic Region Leader
As Mid-Atlantic Region Leader, Giles’s direction and vision continues to push DBI to new heights. In addition to his commitment to the success of DBI's Mid-Atlantic region, Giles is also steadfast in developing a culture of excellence throughout our organization. As an experienced construction industry leader, Giles is passionate about cultivating talent, strengthening our team, and upholding the highest quality standards throughout our operations.
With decades of experience in construction consulting, Giles brings to DBI a wealth of knowledge and proficiency. He specializes in large, complex losses affecting industrial, municipal, agricultural and habitational structures and has been instrumental in the successful resolution of claims and investigations involving numerous building types and occupancies. Giles’s expertise is in demand around the world, with projects completed throughout North America, Latin America, and Europe.
Additionally, Giles has also consulted on numerous historic preservation, builder’s risk, and schedule and delay analysis claims for leading insurance carriers. His recent project work includes several large portfolios of municipal reinsurance risk pool claims throughout Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Ohio.
Partner, South Region Leader
As the leader of DBI’s South Region, Bryan’s precision, attention to detail and hands-on oversight of our offices and training talent inspires loyalty and dedication from our teams and ensures the entire operation continues to grow and thrive.
A third-generation member of a construction family, Bryan has diversified his acumen in the world of the high-tech industry, focusing on financial analysis and working with the complex sectors of new product engineering/development, service, and manufacturing. He has a keen ability to break down outsized projects into manageable functions across the entire ecosystem of the consulting industry. In addition, Bryan is passionate about his work in litigation, providing expert testimonials with jury trial experience.
Bryan’s project work includes, but is not limited to: World Trade Center, Biolab chlorine chemical manufacturing plant, Nidec manufacturing plants, HCA Hospitals, Six Flags Over Texas, MLB Stadiums in Texas, and Hood Industries.
Partner, Managing Director & Northeast Region Leader
Nicholas is at the center of all of DBI’s daily operations, overseeing teams and practices in our offices nationwide, mobilizing units during high-volume CAT seasons, equipment and drones in the field, and ensuring every client is matched with the DBI team best suited for the unique demands of their project. Nicholas’s work, in-house and on the ground, keeps everything running and provides a first-rate experience for our people and our clients.
Nicholas brings that same commitment and attention to detail to DBI’s outsized assignments. He excels in coordinating and leading massive teams, overseeing multiple structures and locations, large submitted claim values, complex repair methodologies and costs while guiding our clients throughout the process with constant, clear briefings.
Nicholas’s project work includes, but is not limited to: Phoenix School Districts, St. Landry Parish in Louisiana, PMRC Apartments, Stolthaven New Orleans, and Schott.
Managing Partner
Tomer’s vision and innovation keep DBI on the cutting edge: in how we evolve technology and reporting for our clients, and in growing our company culture, always with human interest at the center. His ability to see from both big-picture and granular points of view, paired with a passion for what’s possible, drives DBI forward, within our offices and on every project we undertake.
Tomer specializes in Builder’s Risk and international, large-scale industrial projects, handling the multifaceted demands of each assignment. His strategic thinking and deftness in stabilizing active construction while limiting delay and costs, combined with the know-how to present analysis in a way that gives clients command over each project has been an invaluable asset to DBI and those we serve.
His notable past projects include 3M Precision Grinding in Austria, Goldman Sachs, Six Flags New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, and feasibility studies for large-scale infrastructure, code compliance, and structural upgrades.
Partner, Director of Business Development
Lori Ann is the creator and driving force of our business development practice, cultivating our current client base and markets while ushering DBI into new territories. She’s the bridge between DBI and everyone we serve, implementing our company culture and standards to ensure exceptional collaboration on every project. Lori Ann’s vision for growth keeps authenticity at its core: whether launching a new team, client event or cross-country expansion, she makes sure our values are always reflected, at every level.
For the past 16 years, Lori Ann has been developing client bases throughout the construction, architecture, and insurance industries both nationally and abroad. She is relied upon by industry leaders for her guidance and expertise. Lori Ann’s innate understanding of the demands and pace of complex assignments, coupled with her empathic approach, industry awareness and active project engagement keeps DBI at the forefront of our field.
President
Dennis has been instrumental in making DBI a leader in the field: continually driving strategic growth and developing bold, fresh approaches to best serve and empower our clients. His deep knowledge of the construction and insurance industries and dedication to strengthening industry standards have laid the foundation for the uncompromising quality that is DBI’s hallmark.
With 30+ years of experience in the business, Dennis is in demand to present and share his wealth of expertise. His erudition in the complex areas of litigation and appraisals has made him a highly regarded, court-qualified expert witness, continually relied upon to provide depositions, legal reports and testimony in intricate claim disputes.
Dennis has consulted on over 3,000 projects in the United States, United Kingdom, the Caribbean, and the Middle East, including Marriott Resort Properties, Ritz-Carlton Dorado, Dallas Independent School District, the Address Hotel in Dubai, and an extensive portfolio of projects for NYU.
Partner, Southeast Region Leader
Constantine is vital to DBI’s growth. He spearheaded our expansion beyond our flagship location and currently oversees our entire Southeast region. In addition to broadening our physical presence and influence, Constantine is dedicated to cultivating DBI internally, developing our client base, continually working to strengthen our team and uphold DBI’s high-quality standards throughout our offices and operations.
With 20 years of experience in the insurance and construction industries, Constantine has a deep understanding of the many moving parts of large-scale construction, and specializes in Builder’s Risk and complex industrial projects. He’s also well-known and trusted in the industry for litigation and appraisals, where he’s often relied upon to create expert reports and give depositions. Having been recognized by both parties for his objectivity across the board, Constantine is also in frequent demand as an umpire.
Constantine's prior projects include Louisiana Sugar Refinery, Deauville Hotel Litigation, and Jackson Health West Medical Center.
Director & Mountain Region Leader