For an Alternative Procedures Project with an estimated Federal share of at least $5 million, upon the Applicant's request, FEMA provides a FEMA-funded, independent validation of the cost estimate. The validation is conducted by an expert panel composed of design, engineering, construction, cost-estimating, and industry professionals retained by a contractor or another agency with which FEMA has established an agreement for the panel's services. FEMA also has discretion to direct estimates to the panel for review.

If the Applicant requests this validation, the panel:

• Conducts its review before the Applicant's acceptance and before FEMA's obligation of funds
  
• Limits its review to issues pertaining to the estimated cost (the panel will not make decisions related to the eligibility of the damage or statement of work); however, it may make determinations with regard to incorporation of cost elements relating to project execution that could affect the statement of work
  
• May review cost documentation for completed work, if applicable and necessary

If the estimated amount deemed appropriate by the expert panel is less than the Applicant’s estimated amount and the Applicant is unwilling to accept the capped amount, the Applicant may forgo the Alternative Procedures and request that FEMA process the project using standard procedures.