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 Neil Ralston
Neil Ralston is a senior Forensic Fire Investigator. Neil specializes in fire and explosion investigations and has 12 years’ experience working for the Metropolitan police in London, England and the Edmonton Police Service in Alberta. Post policing, Neil specialized in complex multi-agency large loss fire investigations for the insurance industry prior to being promoted to lead the team.

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

Art Beleda
Vice President Eastern Canada

Ryan Dobson
Vice President Western Canada

George Costandi
Director – National Sales and Marketing

Shauna Hall
Branch Manager

Vladimir Chlistovsky
Operations Manager - GTA

Peter Hamilton
Manager - Atlantic Canada

Steve Klimpel
Operations Manager – Northern and Eastern Ontario/Atlantic Canada

Matthew Obach
Manager - Manitoba & Saskatchewan

Said Ismail
Operations Manager – Ancaster

Adam Lohonyai
Structural Forensics Practice Lead