For Architects
Mediation for Successful Project Delivery
Architects carry both technical and economic responsibility in construction projects. When uncertainties arise regarding scope of services, cooperation, deadlines, change orders, or defects, professional out-of-court dispute resolution procedures are essential to keep projects on track.
Professional conflict facilitation ensures smooth project execution and protects valuable business relationships for architects.
As a state-recognised conciliation body, we act neutrally and confidentially, clarify expectations and responsibilities, and enable projects to continue — without requiring legal representation.
Smooth Project Execution
As an architect, you operate within a field of competing interests: clients, contractors, and tradespeople. In your supervisory role, you are responsible for ensuring the project is carried out according to plan.
If conflicts arise between stakeholders, costly delays in completing the works may result. In many cases, the responsible site supervisor is also held liable. Yet in most of these cases, such problems can be avoided. Potential conflicts can often be resolved amicably at an early stage. One effective tool is ad-hoc mediation:
When a site supervisor identifies a potential conflict during construction, they immediately involve a neutral third party — the mediator — even before the conflict escalates. The mediator works with the parties directly on site to develop a solution that serves all interests equally. Extensive evidence-taking and costly court proceedings can thus be avoided. Where necessary, a conciliation procedure (Güteverfahren) may be used for separate evidence preservation. With quick and professional conflict facilitation, the construction project can be completed smoothly and on schedule.
CenaCom mediators are available as professional ad-hoc mediators.
Tip: When drafting construction and architectural contracts, it can be useful to include clauses on mediation and conciliation.
Your Tool for Conflict Resolution
CenaCom is a state-approved conciliation body with over 8.000 conducted procedures. We have developed digital processes that allow architectural firms to work efficiently — from submitting a request to achieving an enforceable agreement.
For Your Clients
- Conciliation Procedures: Simple digital application process, unilateral suspension of limitation periods (§ 204 (1) No. 4 BGB), enforceable settlements (§ 794 (1) No. 1 ZPO).
- High Efficiency: A conciliation request can be filed on the very last day of the limitation period and takes immediate legal effect.
For Architectural Practices
- Mediation and Conciliation with Recommendation: Procedures for sustainable conflict resolution, e.g., internal disputes within partnerships.
- Evidence Preservation: Support in securing evidence and protecting intellectual property.
- Expert Reports: Neutral mediators prepare legal expert reports, e.g., to facilitate settlements.