This expert specializes in fireplace and chimney system investigation, bringing more than 30 years of experience focused on installation defect analysis, safety evaluation, and compliance with manufacturing standards of care. Their work involves assessing installation specifications, construction defects, and code-related issues through extensive on-site inspections of residential and commercial hearth systems.

Their experience includes cause and origin investigations, chimney safety assessments, and evaluation of a wide range of fireplace and appliance types, including masonry, factory-built, pre-cast, free-standing, and insert systems utilizing gas, wood, and pellet fuels. They have performed more than 20,000 hearth-related inspections and provide evaluations related to earthquake damage, pre-listing and resale inspections, and installation deficiencies. Their background also includes contracting and flue-related system work, supporting comprehensive assessment of installation practices and system conditions.

In addition to their technical work, this expert has more than 20 years of experience providing litigation support, including consultations and depositions as a fireplace investigations expert witness. They are recognized as an expert by the Superior Court of California and hold multiple industry certifications, including credentials in chimney inspection, fireplace investigation, and wood-burning systems. They currently serve as Chairman of the NFPA 211 Standard Committee, contributing to the development of national standards for chimney, fireplace, and venting systems, and have held leadership roles in multiple national industry organizations.