APC Scenario: Avoiding a Dispute Through Early Warning and Partnering

Project: Construction of a new eco-friendly office building using innovative building materials and technologies.

RICS Surveyor: Sarah, responsible for quantity surveying and cost management.

Potential Dispute: Delays and cost overruns due to unforeseen challenges with the innovative building materials.

Early Warning Signals:

• Pre-construction phase: During material selection, Sarah raises concerns about the limited track record of the chosen green panels, suggesting alternative options with better-established cost data and installation procedures.

• Construction phase: Delays occur due to unforeseen complexities in installing the panels. Sarah immediately informs the project manager, architect, and contractor, outlining the potential cost implications and proposing possible solutions.

Partnering Techniques:

• Open communication: Sarah facilitates a meeting with all stakeholders to discuss the challenges, share cost projections, and explore options for mitigating delays and cost overruns.

• Collaborative problem-solving: The team jointly explores alternative installation methods, procurement options for additional materials, and potential adjustments to the construction schedule.

• Shared decision-making: Sarah works with the client to weigh the trade-offs between adhering to the original design and potentially exceeding budget, ultimately agreeing on a cost-effective solution that maintains the project's sustainability goals.

Dispute Resolution:

• Through proactive early warning and collaborative problem-solving, Sarah successfully avoids a potential dispute over delays and cost overruns.

• The team implements the agreed-upon solutions, minimising disruptions and keeping the project within budget.

• The client appreciates Sarah's transparency, communication, and commitment to finding solutions, strengthening trust and the professional relationship.

Key Takeaways:

• Early identification and communication of potential problems are crucial for preventing disputes.

• Open and collaborative discussions based on shared goals and transparent information are essential for finding solutions.

• By fostering a strong partnering approach, RICS professionals can build trust and navigate challenges constructively, ensuring project success and avoiding costly disputes.

This scenario demonstrates how an RICS surveyor can leverage risk management, early warning systems, and partnering techniques to mitigate potential issues and foster a collaborative environment, ultimately avoiding a dispute and contributing to a successful project outcome.