Large commercial real estate firms, such as CBRE, JLL and Colliers, operate across extensive global networks and provide services spanning valuation, leasing, capital markets, facilities management, project delivery and strategic consultancy. Many of these organisations work in over 100 countries and serve a significant proportion of the world’s largest corporates. As these firms support clients managing substantial property portfolios and complex commercial arrangements, they frequently encounter situations where disputes arise.
DRS plays an important role within this wider environment, by strengthening the dispute resolution landscape in which those firms operate and developing the professional capability of their people. Most importantly, DRS provides clear and efficient routes to resolution that these firms can confidently recommend to their clients.
Efficient, expert-led alternatives to litigation
When clients of major property firms face disputes, whether related to rent reviews, valuations, service charges or development agreement, they often require proportionate solutions. DRS supports this need by providing access to alternative dispute resolution (ADR), including arbitration, mediation, independent expert determination and more.
Where a court referral may take six to twelve months or longer to reach a hearing, an appointment through an alternative dispute resolution solution can typically be made within weeks. Litigation costs can exceed £50,000, whereas arbitration commonly falls within the £5,000–£10,000 range, depending on the size and scale of the dispute. ADR processes are also confidential, offering privacy that is particularly important for commercial clients.
Supporting professional capability and standards
Professionals within large real estate firms routinely act as valuers, expert witnesses, advisers or representatives. DRS offers high‑quality training and qualifications covering these dispute-related roles, supported by clear expectations around professional conduct and evidence. As such, we have trained several professionals from these firms, ensuring that they maintain strong technical competence and adhere to relevant professional standards when operating in dispute contexts.
Appointment pathways that enhance professional standing
For suitably experienced members, DRS provides opportunities to be considered for appointments as arbitrators, independent experts and mediators. These roles can be challenging, highly respected and often rewarding. Having such expertise within a firm strengthens its reputation and its ability to support clients through complex dispute environments with confidence.
Impartial services that support the wider market
DRS services are available impartially to all parties, regardless of RICS membership or affiliation with a member firm. Fees are standardised and appointments are made independently, supporting fairness and consistency across the sector. As a result, commercial real estate firms benefit from being able to direct clients toward a trusted, market‑recognised system for dispute resolution.
RICS Dispute Resolution Service is proud to support such organisations by developing the dispute resolution options available to their clients, enhancing the professional capabilities of the firms’ people and providing respected appointment pathways for experienced practitioners.