References for Report Violation?

Name: Report Violation?

Description: An engineer is hired to evaluate the structural integrity of an aging, occupied building that the client intends to sell. The contract specifies that the engineer's report must remain confidential. The client explicitly states that the building will be sold "as is" with no plans to repair or renovate any systems prior to sale. Upon conducting structural tests, the engineer determines the building is structurally sound. However, during the assessment, the client reveals that the building has deficiencies in its electrical and mechanical systems that violate applicable codes and standards. Although not specialized in these areas, the engineer recognizes these deficiencies could potentially harm the building's occupants and informs the client of this concern. The engineer must decide whether to maintain client confidentiality or to report the violation.