Construction Dispute Management and Resolution in Zambia

Disputes in the construction industry are often inevitable. Disputes arise from the interpretation and application of any part of ambiguous, unplanned, and conflicting contract documents. There are many methods which can be used to resolve disputes. The study examined the concept of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and its application in the Zambian construction industry. The aim of the research was to study the nature and extent of the application of ADR in the construction industry. The survey revealed that ADR was not widely used in the construction industry owing to some inherent obstacles such as: lack of knowledge and awareness about various ADR techniques and benefits; and absence of appropriate rules and an advisory center to guide the disputing parties on the overall process. The study identified training, regulation of practitioners, increased awareness of stakeholders, and involvement of the National Council for Construction (NCC), and support and participation of the government as ways of improving ADR practice in Zambia. (C) 2011 American Society of Civil Engineers.