What an umpire does
Under a typical appraisal clause, each side names an appraiser and those two select an umpire. The appraisers try to agree on the amount of loss. Items they resolve are usually signed off by both; items they cannot resolve go to the umpire, and an award signed by any two of the three sets the amount of loss for those items.
The umpire is not an advocate for either side. The role is to listen, review the evidence, and decide the disputed items fairly, within the limits of the appraisal clause.
Independence and disclosure
Neutrality is the core of the job. Before accepting an umpire appointment, we disclose any prior or current relationships with the parties, their appraisers, the carrier and counsel, and any other facts that might reasonably raise a question about impartiality. If a conflict exists, we decline or let the parties decide whether to proceed after full disclosure.
- We do not accept an umpire appointment on a claim where we have acted for either party.
- We disclose past umpire or appraiser work involving the same carrier or appraisers.
- We avoid private communications with one side about the merits once appointed.
- We update our disclosure if new information emerges during the appraisal.
Selecting an umpire
Most policies give the two appraisers a set period to agree on an umpire. If they cannot agree, either party can usually ask a court of record in the county where the property is located to appoint one. New Mexico has 33 counties, and local procedure varies, so a New Mexico attorney can explain the court process.
What appraisers should share
- Both estimates and a list of agreed and disputed items.
- The policy and appraisal clause, and any agreements about scope or procedure.
- Photos, measurements, reports and pricing support for each disputed item.
How we run the umpire process
- Disclosure and acceptance. We confirm independence and agree on fees and procedure in writing.
- Document review. We read both estimates and supporting material.
- Site inspection. We generally inspect the property, ideally with both appraisers present.
- Hearing or conference. Each appraiser explains the disputed items. We ask questions and may request additional support.
- Decision and award. We decide the disputed items and prepare or review an award form that states the amount of loss clearly, including replacement cost and actual cash value where appropriate.
Fees
Under most policies, the parties split the umpire’s fees equally. We explain our fee arrangement in writing before accepting the appointment, and we do not tie our fee to the size of the award.
Why a local umpire can help
A New Mexico appraisal umpire who knows the state’s construction, from flat parapet roofs to stucco matching and mountain rebuild costs, can follow both appraisers’ reasoning without needing every regional practice explained from scratch. That familiarity keeps hearings shorter and focused on the evidence.
Requesting an umpire
Appraisers, attorneys and parties can contact us with the claim details so we can run a conflict check. To learn how the full panel works, see inside the appraisal process, and for representation as a party’s appraiser, see appraisal clause representation. We serve panels throughout the state, from Farmington to Carlsbad.
Questions about umpire services
Who pays the umpire?
Under most appraisal clauses, the two sides split the umpire’s fees equally. Check your policy for its exact terms.
What if the appraisers cannot agree on an umpire?
Many policies allow either party to ask a court in the county where the property is located to appoint one. A New Mexico attorney can explain the process.
Can you be an umpire if you have worked with one of the appraisers before?
Possibly, but we disclose that history before accepting. The parties can then decide whether to proceed or choose someone else.