Steven R. Wilcox —Premises Defect Expert

Steven Wilcox has been a municipal building official for the past 23 years while also participating in private construction defect and similar matters. Steve's lengthy experience in state and local building code development and construction defect litigation matters give him a unique breadth of insight. In the evaluation of matters he applies what he calls an “integrated premises forensics” approach where all aspects are viewed in depth. He is qualified and experienced to argue matters involving nationally developed building code standards, local building and zoning laws, building sciences, accessibility, occupational safety, and industry standards of construction. Steve has been qualified as an expert in building construction several times. Steve is an ex officio member of the Washington State Energy Code Technical Advisory Group as representative of the Washington Association of Building Officials.

A skilled forensic researcher and technical analyst with investigative experience he understands the need to educate and clearly communicate complex concepts to those outside of his profession. Steve has a broad range of abilities and experience with private residential and commercial projects as well as government facilities. Primary focus has been surrounding various aspects of premises liability, building construction, maintenance and site development defects involving components such as stairways, exiting systems for fire escape, materials and materials applications, lighting, thresholds, accessibility (ADA/FHA), ventilation, exterior envelope leakage, WISHA/OSHA requirements, etc.

Over the past 33 years Steve Wilcox has been a Project Engineer, Building Inspector, Building Official, Development Services Manager, and Community Development Director. Steve has managed large road re-construction projects, and been involved in analysis of impacts from proposed light rail projects. He has successfully worked part-time for 19 years within the field of construction disputes and been involved in over 80 cases as lead, or in partnership with other construction defect experts. Steve has participated in large accessibility surveys and reporting. Experienced in investigation, declaration, deposition, planning commissions, building appeals hearings, zoning commissions, and city councils.

Steve has a Bachelor of Science in Building Construction from the University of Washington (1984) with minor studies in architecture. He trains regularly with professional and trade organizations. Council of American Building Officials Certified Building Official and International Council of Building Official Certified Building Inspector (1994). General Studies, drafting and emergency management certifications. Steve is a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for children in King County, Washington.