TeCSA Low Value Dispute Adjudication Service (LVDs)

For some years there has been strong evidence in the construction industry of a call for a fresh approach to using adjudication as a method for resolving disputes in lower value disputes. By that I mean less complex and essentially simple liquidated demands for money. This call is principally a reaction to the increasing cost and complexity of adjudication procedures and higher levels of fees being charged by some adjudicators,legal and claims consultants',mainly resulting from an escalation in the time they need to spend on legal, evidential and procedural issues.

At the Technology and Construction Solicitor's Association (TeCSA) Conference last November a paper fielded by TeCSA Committee Solicitor Andrew James' was that of a new "low cost" TeCSA Adjudication Service. The overwhelming reaction was positive, and many hands went up to say please promote it. Whilst TeCSA cannot control the legal costs of parties, it can seek to make adjudication more attractive by