The Role of an Umpire
Under many insurance appraisal clause provisions, when two independently selected appraisers cannot reach agreement on a disputed valuation or amount-of-loss issue, an umpire may be called upon to assist in resolving the dispute. The umpire is intended to function as a neutral participant in the appraisal process — not as a representative of either party.
The umpire's role is to independently review the available documentation, evidence, and the positions of the two appraisers, and to provide a professional analysis of the disputed amount. Depending on the applicable policy language and state law, an agreement between the umpire and one of the appraisers may constitute a binding award on the disputed issue.
A1 Auto Appraisals' Umpire Services
Jonathan Soto of A1 Auto Appraisals has extensive experience serving as an umpire in insurance appraisal proceedings. With over 10 years of experience working throughout the insurance appraisal industry — including experience on both sides of the claims process — A1 brings a thorough understanding of the documentation, analysis, and professional standards required of a neutral umpire.
A1 Auto Appraisals is available to serve as umpire for disputes involving vehicle valuation matters where the applicable policy and law permit umpire involvement. Our role as umpire is strictly neutral — we do not represent either party and do not advocate for any particular outcome.
What the Umpire Process Involves
Review of Documentation
The umpire independently reviews the documentation submitted by both appraisers, including their respective valuations, supporting data, and any relevant evidence.
Independent Analysis
The umpire conducts an independent professional analysis of the disputed valuation or amount-of-loss issue, applying appropriate methodology and market evidence.
Neutral Determination
The umpire provides a professional determination of the disputed amount, based on the available evidence and without advocacy for either party.
Award
Depending on the applicable policy and law, agreement between the umpire and one of the appraisers may constitute a binding award on the disputed issue.
Types of Disputes
A1 Auto Appraisals' umpire services are available for valuation and amount-of-loss disputes that fall within the scope of an applicable appraisal provision. This may include disputes involving:
- Actual cash value disputes in total-loss claims
- Diminished value disputes, where permitted by the applicable policy and law
- Repair cost and scope disputes, where the applicable policy and law permit such matters to be submitted to appraisal
- Other valuation and amount-of-loss issues within the scope of the applicable appraisal provision
Qualifications
Umpire services are available only where the applicable insurance policy and state law permit umpire involvement in the appraisal process. The umpire does not determine coverage, liability, or the legal obligations of any party. A1 Auto Appraisals is an independent vehicle appraisal company and is not a law firm. Questions concerning legal rights, insurance policy interpretation, or applicable law should be directed to a qualified attorney in the applicable jurisdiction.
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