DBIA Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the DBIA exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 DBIA Exam Format at a Glance
📚 DBIA Topics to Study (45)
✍️ Sample DBIA Questions & Answers
1. Which statement best describes a primary advantage of the commissioning process within an integrated design-build project?
According to DBIA best practices, the integrated nature of design-build allows the commissioning plan and authority to be involved early in the design process. This ensures that the owner's performance requirements are understood, incorporated into the design, and that systems are designed for testability and maintainability, leading to a smoother turnover and a better-performing facility.
2. Which alternative dispute resolution (ADR) method results in a binding decision made by a neutral third party without court involvement?
Arbitration produces a binding decision from a neutral arbitrator or panel, making it enforceable without going through the court system.
3. How does the owner's payment process work in design-build?
Design-build payment follows a progress payment model with monthly applications, owner review, and retainage.
4. What is a 'limitation of liability' clause, and how does it function in design-build?
A limitation of liability clause establishes a maximum amount the design-builder can be required to pay.
5. Which of the following best describes the 'economic loss rule' as it affects design-build disputes?
The economic loss rule generally bars tort claims for purely economic losses, requiring parties to rely on contractual remedies, which affects how design-build disputes are structured and what claims are available.
6. What is 'force majeure' as it applies to design-build contract claims?
Force majeure refers to unforeseeable events beyond either party's control that excuse delay or non-performance, typically entitling the affected party to a time extension but not additional monetary compensation.