Consensual dispute resolution has become more popular over recent years and including this in NEC3 contracts was a popular Z clause. NEC4 includes a four week period for escalation and negotiation of a dispute before formal proceedings such as adjudication are started. It also provides a new Dispute Avoidance Board option W3 which involves the referral of a dispute to a board which is nominated by the parties when the contract is formed. W3 cannot be used if the Housing Grants Construction and Regeneration Act is applicable to the contract.
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