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Construction projects are demanding and tough procedures. If your construction hasn't been managed or planned properly, a dispute may emerge as a result. Simple issues can escalate to major structural problems.
CONSTRUCTION DISPUTE RESOLUTION METHODS
1. Negotiation. A negotiation clause basically includes the agreement that if a cause for a dispute should arise between a contractor and a project owner, these parties will attempt to reach a just and satisfactory resolution between themselves before moving on to other means.
2. Mediation. A mediation clause suggests the inclusion of a neutral third party in the dispute situation to help mediate the process of resolving the dispute. Mediation is not legally binding in any way, but can be an effective way out of a situation which could otherwise deteriorate.
3. Expert determination. An alternative to mediation is expert determination which is used to resolve disputes of a specialist nature or in cases where there is a valuation dispute requiring a specialist's opinion. Though the determination cannot be legally enforced either, if the parties agree to this type of resolution it may save them from more time-consuming procedures.
4. Adjudication. The adjudication method also includes a neutral third party but unlike with the mediation method, the adjudicator will give a decision, whereas the mediator will assist parties in finding the resolution. Adjudication clauses typically also include the possibility of applying to a court to enforce the adjudicator's decision, if the dispute is not resolved by the decision itself. It is a cost-efficient method which helps operations proceed while the dispute is resolved.
5. Arbitration. If parties decide to go for arbitration, they will again have a neutral third party enter the situation to help resolve it. In arbitration parties agree to the arbitrator who has the relevant experience to engage in the matter. The arbitrator considers documents and facts that concern the situation, and can make a decision that favors one side if the parties fail to achieve consensus. Arbitrations can be legally binding, depending on the jurisdiction. The costs of arbitration can be significantly higher than that of other methods, sometimes even as high as legal proceedings.
6. Litigation. Finally, litigation is usually also included in the dispute clause, in case the parties do not find any other way to resolve the issues that have come up. Litigation involves a trial and is legally binding and enforceable, though it can also be appealed. Litigation can be by far the most thorough, complex as well as slow and costly way of resolving a dispute. This is why parties will typically attempt a number of other resolution methods before opting for litigation.