An insurance appraisal umpire in Rhode Island is chosen by the two appraisers, or appointed by a court if they can’t agree on one. The umpire considers only the items the appraisers couldn’t resolve. When the umpire and either appraiser sign, the award sets the amount of loss.
How we serve as umpire
- Disclosure first. We disclose any prior relationship with either appraiser, the insurer or the policyholder before accepting.
- A defined process. We set out how submissions, inspections and communications will work so both sides know what to expect.
- Focus on the disputed items. We review the items in dispute, inspect when needed and ask both appraisers for support.
- A clear award. The award is itemized as the policy and the panel require.
When we serve as umpire, we serve only as umpire
We never act as an appraiser and an umpire on the same claim, and we don’t advocate for either side once we’re appointed.
For appraisers
If you’re an appraiser looking for an umpire on a Rhode Island file, call us with the claim details and the other appraiser’s name so we can check for conflicts.
Questions about umpire services
Who pays the umpire?
Most policies split the umpire’s fee equally between the policyholder and the insurer. Check your policy’s appraisal wording.
What if the appraisers can’t agree on an umpire?
Many policy forms allow either party to ask a court to select one. Check the appraisal wording in the policy.
Does the umpire decide coverage?
No. The umpire decides the amount of loss on the disputed items, not whether something is covered.