Avoid Costly Construction Disputes with AAA-ICDR® Dispute Avoidance and Resolution Boards

Proactive solutions to mitigate project risks and resolve issues before they escalate

Construction projects are inherently complex, with the potential for disputes at every stage. Traditional dispute resolution methods can be time-consuming and expensive. The American Arbitration Association-International Centre for Dispute Resolution’s® (AAA-ICDR) Dispute Avoidance and Resolution Boards (DARBs) offer a proactive and cost-effective approach to addressing potential conflicts in real-time, keeping projects on track and within budget.

AAA Construction Rules:

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Key Benefits of AAA DARBs

  • Minimized Disruption: Address issues early to prevent costly delays and avoid escalation into protracted litigation or arbitration.
  • Cost-Effective: DARBs offer a more affordable alternative to traditional dispute resolution processes.
  • Expert Guidance: Benefit from the impartial perspective of seasoned construction industry professionals and construction lawyers with deep knowledge of industry practices and contracts.
  • Tailored Solutions: Procedures and recommendations are customized to your project needs and contracts.
  • Preserve Relationships: Foster a collaborative environment where parties can resolve disagreements constructively without damaging business partnerships.

Download the AAA-ICDR DARB Guide Specifications, Rules and Procedures

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How AAA DARBs Work

  • Impartial Panel: A panel of neutral construction professionals is established early in the project.
  • Proactive Engagement: The DARB may conduct regular site visits or reviews to identify and address potential issues in real-time before they escalate into significant challenges.
  • Early Resolution: If a dispute arises, the DARB offers recommendations or determinations for the resolution of the dispute to encourage quick resolution.


  • Binding Option: Parties can agree in advance if DARB decisions will be binding or non-binding, allowing for decisive action if needed.
  • Admissibility Option: Parties can agree in advance if DARB decisions are admissible or not admissible in subsequent proceedings.

AAA Construction Team

For more information, contact a member of the Construction Team

Iman Hyder-Eliz
Vice President

States: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia, Wisconsin
Michael Powell
Vice President

States: Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington
Rod Toben
Vice President

States: Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Wyoming
Jacqueline Vega Cintron
Vice President

States: Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia