Dispute Review Boards in Construction

Dispute Review Boards in Construction

Understanding Dispute Review Boards and Their Role

Dispute Review Boards (DRBs) are a pre-emptive approach to conflicts in large-scale construction projects. Review Boards are generally formed at the beginning of a project and consist of independent and impartial subject matter experts. Their role is to monitor construction progress and help the parties avoid disputes. DRB’s are used to help resolve issues for the duration of the project. 

DRBs are employed worldwide in large and complex construction projects. An effective Dispute Resolution Board can assist the parties in limiting conflict during the course of construction, provide meaningful input into the construction process and address important issues before they pose serious risk to the successful completion of the project. 

Models and Structure of Dispute Boards

There are several models for the structure of Dispute Boards, depending on their primary role (avoiding disputes, resolving them, or both), the number of members (one or three), their duration (standing throughout the project or ad hoc for specific issues), and the rules or procedures they follow.