Dispute Review & Prevention Boards (DRBs)
Independent Oversight for Complex Projects
Large infrastructure and commercial projects are prone to delays, overruns, and disputes. Left unmanaged, these conflicts escalate into arbitration or litigation, wasting time, money, and goodwill.
At The Neutrals, our Dispute Review & Prevention Boards (DRBs) embed independent neutrals into projects from the very start. DRBs act as an early warning system, a continuous oversight mechanism, and a fast, fair resolution body — ensuring projects stay on track.
The Project Journey with Neutrals
- Early Warning System → Spot risks before they become disputes.
- Continuous Oversight → Independent review of contracts, relationships, and performance.
- Trusted Independence → Panels staffed only by accredited neutrals from The Global Bench.
- Efficiency & Savings → Resolve issues on-site, avoiding litigation or arbitration delays.
- Board Formation → Typically one or three neutrals appointed at project start, nominated jointly by stakeholders.
- Regular Monitoring → Periodic site visits, reviews of progress, and facilitated dialogues.
- Immediate Intervention → Informal resolution of emerging disputes before escalation.
- Hearing Process → If disputes persist, DRBs conduct fast hearings at the project site.
- Recommendations/Decisions → DRBs issue clear, written recommendations or determinations.
- Large-scale construction & engineering projects.
- Energy and infrastructure developments.
- Government and public-private partnerships.
- Multistakeholder initiatives with high contractual risk.
The Neutrals Advantage
Prevention + Resolution in One → A built-in system for both monitoring and resolving disputes.
Expert Panels → Neutrals with deep experience in construction, engineering, law, and project management.
Global Best Practice → Aligned with leading DRB standards and contractual frameworks worldwide.
Trusted Process → Confidential, impartial, and designed to preserve relationships.
Constitution, Role & Responsibility of DRBs
Established shortly after contract execution.
Review project documents, specifications, and timelines.
Conduct site visits and meet with both owner and contractor teams.
Prevent disputes by clarifying positions and encouraging open communication.
Hold hearings when disputes are referred, with minimal legal formalities.
Provide written recommendations within two weeks of hearings.
Three-Party Agreement
DRBs operate under a Three-Party Agreement (Owner–Contractor–DRB), which defines:
Scope of work and hearing procedures.
Responsibilities of contracting parties to provide information.
Provisions for impartiality, immunity, and indemnification of DRB members.
Cost-sharing mechanisms for fees and expenses.
Case Insight
“On a $1.2B infrastructure project, a DRB facilitated continuous dialogue between the owner and contractors. Over 15 potential disputes were resolved on-site, saving the project millions and preventing years of arbitration.”
Establish a DRB for Your Project
Request Appointment of DRB Neutrals
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