What an umpire does
The umpire is the third member of an appraisal panel. Selected by the two appraisers, or appointed by a court if they can’t agree, the umpire becomes involved only on items the appraisers cannot resolve between themselves. An award signed by the umpire and either appraiser sets the amount of loss.
How we run an umpire assignment
- Disclosure first. We disclose any prior relationships with the parties, appraisers or counsel before accepting.
- Ground rules. We confirm the scope of what’s being submitted, a timeline for position statements and how communications will be shared so neither side has a private channel.
- Review and inspection. We review both appraisers’ estimates, photos and supporting documents, and inspect the property when it helps.
- Itemized decisions. We decide each disputed item with a short explanation, so the result is understandable rather than a single unexplained number.
- A clean award. The final award states replacement cost, depreciation and actual cash value by coverage where the policy calls for it.
When we serve as umpire, we are no one’s advocate
On an umpire assignment we represent neither the policyholder nor the insurer. We don’t accept umpire roles on panels where we have a conflict, and we keep our appraiser and umpire work strictly separate.
Questions about this service
Can a policyholder hire you as an umpire directly?
Umpires are selected by the two appraisers or by a court. Your appraiser can propose us; the other appraiser has to agree.
How are umpire fees paid?
Most policies split the umpire’s fee equally between the policyholder and the insurer. We confirm the fee arrangement in writing at the start.
Will you hold a hearing?
Usually an informal one at most. Many items can be decided on written submissions and an inspection.