Dispute Resolution
Mediation and Arbitration
This service is suitable for owners, shipyards, insurers, loss adjusters, solicitors, P&I clubs, and financial institutions.
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Impartial reporting
- Independent technical reports addressing vessel condition, damage, valuation and construction‑related matters
- Photographic and documentary evidence provided to support and substantiate conclusions
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Mediation support
- Technical support during negotiation processes, providing objective guidance
- Independent evaluation of differing or competing claims
- On‑site attendance where direct involvement is required
- Clear reporting on progress and developments throughout the process
What is Mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary, confidential, and non-binding dispute resolution process. A neutral third party, known as a mediator, assists conflicting parties in communicating, identifying key issues, exploring compromises, and negotiating a mutually agreeable settlement.
Mediation serves as an alternative to formal litigation and operates through several distinct characteristics:
- Neutrality: The mediator does not take sides, determine who is right or wrong, or impose a decision. Their role is purely to facilitate conversation.
- Control: The participating parties dictate the outcome; a settlement is only finalized when both sides agree to and sign the terms.
- Confidentiality: Discussions, offers, and information shared during the process are kept private and cannot typically be used against a party in a later court proceeding.
When is Mediation used?
It is widely applied across various fields to resolve conflicts without the expense and stress of a courtroom:
- Family: Divorces, child custody, and support arrangements.
- Commercial: Business disputes, contract breaches, and workplace grievances.
- Legal/Civil: Court-mandated or voluntary attempts to settle civil claims prior to a trial.
For more information on how to utilize these services or the specific laws regarding dispute resolution, you can refer to the European e-Justice Portal for regional guidelines or the World Intellectual Property Organization for commercial frameworks.
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Arbitration and expert witness
- Provision of expert technical evidence for use in formal arbitration proceedings
- Preparation and delivery of written and oral testimony in line with recognised professional standards
- Appointment as court‑appointed or party‑appointed expert, depending on the procedure
- Coverage of disputes relating to construction, refits, damage, insurance matters and valuation issues
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Common disputes handled
- Defects arising from construction or refit works
- Determination of damage cause and insurance‑related issues
- Assessment of valuation disagreements
- Liability disputes resulting from collisions, groundings or other incidents
- Independent counter‑surveys providing an objective second opinion
Official organisation for audits including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and many others.
Auditor for technical and marine-related operations.
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Approved as judged appraisor and surveyor by the court of Antwerp Belgium since 1999.
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Hogere Zeevaartschool Antwerpen. Master Commercial Yachting 500 GT.
UNIVERCITY GHENT: Master Juridical Expert.
UNUN Den Haag. Arbitrage
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Contact us today to discuss your insurance survey needs and ensure your assets are professionally documented and properly protected.
Trusted Yacht Survey Expertise
Why Choose INS?
When it comes to yachts, experience and precision are essential. Our surveyors carry out independent inspections and technical reporting aimed at identifying important issues, protecting your interests, and supporting informed decisions. Whether you need guidance for a purchase, insurance, damage assessment, or project supervision, INS provides a reliable and professional service throughout every stage.
With detailed reporting and practical industry knowledge, we deliver the insight and documentation required to support efficient transactions, protect asset value, and minimise risk.
Contact us today to discuss the most suitable service for your vessel.