How a dispute gets settled.
From a difference over the numbers to an adjudicator's decision. Scroll through each step to see who is involved, what is exchanged, and where we come in.
ADispute resolution · Settle it early
Step 01A difference over the numbers
Most disputes start as a gap between what was claimed and what was assessed. We review the contract, the records and the valuations to show where the gap really is — often enough to settle it there.
Where we come in
- Advice on dispute avoidance
- Step 02
Talk it through
A neutral helps both sides reach their own agreement. A dispute resolution board can do this throughout the project, before positions harden.
Where we come in
- Mediation
- Conciliation
- Dispute resolution boards
- Step 03
Ask an expert
Where the question is technical — measurement, valuation, quantum — both sides can agree to let an independent expert decide it.
Where we come in
- Expert determination
BAdjudication · Under CIPAA 2012
Step 04Payment claim
Under CIPAA 2012, adjudication begins with a written payment claim, served on the party who should pay.
Where we come in
- Management of adjudication
- Step 05
Payment response
The respondent has 10 working days to admit or dispute the claim. No response means the whole claim is disputed.
Where we come in
- Preparation of referral or response
- Step 06
Notice of adjudication
If the dispute stands, the claimant serves a written notice of adjudication, setting out the nature of the dispute.
Where we come in
- Acting as party representative
- Step 07
An adjudicator is appointed
The parties agree on an adjudicator, or one is appointed by the Director of the AIAC.
Where we come in
- Acting as adjudicator
- Step 08
Claim, response, reply
Each side sets out its case in writing. This is where the quantum is won or lost: measured, valued and evidenced.
Where we come in
- Preparation of referral or response
- Acting as expert witness
- Step 09
The decision
The adjudicator decides the dispute. The decision binds both sides unless the dispute is settled, or finally decided by arbitration or the court.
Where we come in
- Management of adjudication
- Acting as adjudicator