(1) Where the building permit that authorized commencement of construction of a building was issued on or after August 1, 2005:

     (a)(i) If the action is referred to arbitration under RCW 64.55.100, the party who demands arbitration shall advance the fees of any arbitrator and any mediator appointed under RCW 64.55.120; and

     (ii) A party who requests the appointment of a neutral expert pursuant to RCW 64.55.130 shall advance any appointed neutral expert's fees incurred up to the issuance of a final report.

     (b) If the action has not been referred to arbitration, the court shall determine liability for the fees of any mediator appointed under RCW 64.55.120, unless the parties agree otherwise.

     (c) Ultimate liability for any fees or costs advanced pursuant to this subsection (1) is subject to the fee- and cost-shifting provisions of RCW 64.55.160.

     (2) Where the building permit that authorized commencement of construction of a building was issued before August 1, 2005:

     (a)(i) If the action is referred to arbitration under RCW 64.55.100, the party who demands arbitration is liable for and shall pay the fees of any appointed arbitrator and any mediator appointed under RCW 64.55.120; and

     (ii) A party who requests the appointment of a neutral expert pursuant to RCW 64.55.130 is liable for and shall pay any appointed neutral expert's fees incurred up to the issuance of a final report.

     (b) If the action has not been referred to arbitration, the court shall determine liability for the fees of any mediator appointed under RCW 64.55.120, unless the parties agree otherwise.

     (c) Fees and costs paid under this subsection (2) are not subject to the fee- and cost-shifting provisions of RCW 64.55.160.

[2005 c 456 § 15.]