Conflicts between homeowners and contractors are a common type of case for MVMP mediators. Our mediators have experience with all kinds of services and construction processes. We have helped many clients to come to agreement.
These mediation cases have involved: house construction, landscaping, installation of septic systems, drainage, roofing, problems with meeting building codes, handling landmarked buildings, sub-contractors, lack of contracts, specialized trades and materials, unforeseen complications among many others. If there is a conflict, our mediators will guide the parties through the process of talking it out, and considering negotiation aspects and making offers and if possible, help to write up an agreement.
One common scenario involves an off-island homeowner with an on-island contractor. Fairly often the distance and contextual differences lead to communication difficulties. In many of these cases financial charges have built up, misunderstanding have compounded, and the individuals arrive to mediation with a high level of frustration and distrust. The process of building an agenda, defining conflicts and neutrally reframing issues can go a long way to creating a more positive atmosphere.
Sometimes trades people ask if our mediators have the technical knowledge to help guide these more technical discussions. Over many years our mediators have developed a working knowledge of many trades. Even if the mediator doesn’t have the technical knowledge, we are experts in deconstructing conflict. The mediation structure and stages help to more clearly articulate the pertinent issues. The process of talking things out, listening to each other’s perspective and searching for openings for agreement can be helped by the unbiased mediator.
There are numerous benefits to community mediation, as opposed to the initial use of Small Claims or District Court Civil Cases. When parties are facing each other in mediation, talking things through and self-determining the outcome, it is an empowering process. Community mediation cases are not listed in court documents, unless requested by parties. In this way individuals and businesses can avoid the public awareness that can be searched through the internet.
Our mediators can help, long before the homeowner and contractor are at a standoff. Coming to mediation early in the process, when communication is in the beginning stages of becoming difficult, is a time when mediators can help to set things on the right path. An area of strength for mediators is writing up agreements that are clear, well detailed and durable.