Steve Kowkabany
PE
Senior Managing Director - Specialty Design Services, Compliance & Regulatory Services
Henry Stormer
IAAI-CFI (V), CFPS
Fire Investigator, President of Vertex Fire Investigations, LLC, Forensics
SERVICES
Overview
Expert Support Before, During, and After Wildfires and Fire Events
VERTEX offers comprehensive wildfire and fire prevention, response, and recovery services—combining decades of technical expertise with advanced tools and a multidisciplinary team. We support property owners, developers, insurers, and legal professionals in managing fire risks and responding effectively to wildfire incidents and structural fires.
Whether you’re preparing for wildfire risks, managing active fire damage, or navigating post-event recovery, VERTEX is your trusted partner every step of the way.
Preventing wildfires and fire-related damage starts with strategic planning and expert evaluations. VERTEX delivers proactive services to reduce risk, ensure code compliance, and protect people and property from wildfire exposure.
Code consulting, system design, and performance-based solutions for detection, suppression, and passive protection.
Retrofit planning, PFAS mitigation, and fire suppression upgrades for high-hazard and industrial facilities.
Site audits, fire risk assessments, HAZMAT planning, and safety training.
Pre-construction wildfire risk surveys, exposure analysis, and emergency response planning.
SB 721/SB 326 inspections to ensure elevated exterior elements (EEE) are fire-safe and compliant.
In the aftermath of a wildfire or major fire event, VERTEX mobilizes rapidly to provide expert support, protect assets, and manage recovery operations with precision.
Rapid deployment for wildfires and large-scale fire losses, including structural, environmental, and air quality expertise.
Real-time project oversight and code compliance verification throughout the fire recovery process.
Coordination across contractors, insurers, and stakeholders to manage emergency wildfire recovery and repair.
VERTEX provides a full suite of investigative, forensic, and environmental services following wildfires or structural fires—supporting insurance claims, legal cases, and safe rebuilding.
NFPA 921-compliant wildfire and fire incident investigations with expert witness support.
Detailed scope of loss, repair, and replacement estimates tailored for insurance and litigation needs.
Structural damage assessments, failure analysis, and litigation support related to wildfire impact.
Water intrusion and damage reviews post-suppression, including repair consulting.
Hazardous material cleanup, IAQ assessments, and permit closeout support post-wildfire.
Our Construction Project Advisory Services provide expert oversight and support to ensure safe, efficient, and resilient reconstruction. We guide every phase of the rebuilding process—ensuring quality, compliance, and cost control for wildfire-impacted properties.
Core Services Include:
Distressed Projects & Claims Support – Forensic analysis, litigation support, and turnaround services for wildfire-related project disruptions.
Project & Program Management – End-to-end construction leadership and owner’s representation for wildfire recovery.
Project Controls – Budgeting, scheduling, and risk mitigation to keep wildfire rebuilding projects on track.
Quality Assurance & Safety – Inspections, code compliance (SB 721/SB 326), and environmental consulting for fire-safe construction.
Expert Services insights
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