Canada’s Largest Forensic Engineering and Fire Investigation Firm
Over 25 years of helping clients discover the truth by determining facts, Origin and Cause has become a trusted leader in forensic engineering in Vancouver and all over Canada. Insurance companies, corporate risk managers, independent adjusters, manufacturers, and law firms rely on our cross-disciplinary forensic expertise.

Our Forensic Experts
We are recognized by the industry for our expertise and trusted by the courts as expert witnesses. Forensic experts with an average of 25 years of investigative experience lead investigations. Cumulatively, our team has investigated over 30,000 cases.
Meet Russ Friesen
Russ is a Certified Fire and Explosion and Investigator with over 20 years of experience, during which time he has performed over 500 investigations. Based in Vancouver, he assists clients with investigations into fires involved in insurance claims and litigation, as well as investigating technical failures, particularly fire sprinkler systems.

Expert Engineering Analysis
Our investigators respond rapidly to incidents, ensuring quick site attendance and fast and frequent updates to our clients. Our qualified experts determine the facts of a case and provide accurate, evidence-based opinions. Our meticulous lab and fieldwork coupled with industry-leading reporting and expert testimony make all the difference to insurance claims and legal outcomes.
Determining the Facts
Our reputation is built on our integrity and commitment to the facts. Through our investigations, we guarantee unbiased opinions based on factual evidence determined through scientific methodology, examination and laboratory testing.
Leadership Team

Mazen Habash
President & Consulting Forensic Engineer

Shauna Hall
Branch Manager

Mario Delorme
Vice President Eastern Canada and Fire & Explosion Investigator

Ken Swan
Vice President Western Canada and Fire & Explosion Investigator

George Costandi
Business Development & Marketing Manager

Vladimir Chlistovsky
Forensic Engineer and Mississauga Operations Manager

Art Beleda
Fire & Explosion Investigator and Branch Manager

Peter Hamilton
Fire & Explosion Investigator and Atlantic Canada Manager

Steve Klimpel
Fire & Explosion Investigator and Branch Manager

Matthew Obach
Forensic Engineer and Branch Manager

Yasser Korany
Structural Forensics Practice Lead & Consulting Engineer