Professional Construction Dispute Resolution

SDP Determinations was founded in 2016 by Steve Poorter

Since June 2022 Steve’s time is entirely focused on construction dispute resolution. He acts as an arbitrator, adjudicator and claims consultant. His clients include both contractors and employers.

Steve Poorter

PrEng, PrCM, BScEng(Civil), BComm, FSAICE, FAArb

Steve is a registered Professional Civil Engineer and qualified Arbitrator. He has more than 35 years post-graduate experience in delivering building and civil engineering projects in a safe and efficient manner.

He has the rare advantage by having been a direct employee of Client bodies, Contractors and Professional Engineering companies. He has worked for three of South Africa’s major construction companies, a large paper manufacturing company and a consulting firm.

Public Offices:

Professional Associations:

Range of Projects

Steve has been engaged on a wide range of projects in a variety of sectors including: hotels, mixed-use building developments, sports stadium, oil-sector works, water & wastewater infrastructure, bridges, railways, roads, power stations, aluminium smelters, shopping centres, hospitals, residential buildings, pulp and paper, automotive and food processing plants.

Construction Disputes

With extensive working knowledge of the JBCC, GCC, NEC and FIDIC forms of contract. He is on the SAICE , KZN MBA and Association of Arbitrator’s panel of arbitrators and adjudicators.

Over the last 15 years he has frequently been appointed by these institutions as an arbitrator or adjudicator in construction disputes. One the regular presenters at the Association of Arbitrator’s KZN Branch annual Construction Conundrums seminar that deals with topical construction contract issues. For two years he was a part time lecturer of Construction Law to undergraduates UKZN

He has extensive experience in both submitting and defending a variety of claims, many of which involved delays and disruption, changes in scope or late information. He is able to combine the understanding of the complexities of construction, contract programs and technical issues with the legal and contractual documentation, argument and processes required for settlement of claims and disputes.

Client Testimonials

Steve from SDP Determinations has been an invaluable resource, expertly guiding us through complex FIDIC and GCC contract matters with clarity and precision.

Having worked with Steve Poorter, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional expertise in contract management, showcasing a keen understanding of complex agreements and negotiations. His meticulous approach and attention to detail have significantly contributed to the success of our projects, making him an invaluable asset to our team.

Having worked with Steve over a long period, his professional knowledge and experience has never been in doubt. But, Steve’s best qualities are his people management skills; his calmness in dealing with matters under pressure and above all his fairness in dealing with all parties.

Steve’s deep knowledge of civil engineering contracts has saved us time, money, and potential disputes—his input is always spot-on.

It has been an absolute pleasure coming across SDPD and the services that are offered. It truly gives one a peace of mind knowing you are well represented.

Working with Steve Poorter from SDP Determinations has always been a professional and efficient experience, marked by clear communication and sound judgement.

Professional Construction Dispute Resolution

Steve Poorter

Range of Projects

Construction Disputes

Client Testimonials

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