Experience has shown that approximately 90% of cases involved with the appraisal process can be resolved without the involvement of an umpire.  However, if an agreement can not be made during the on-site meeting of the appraisers, the next step is to proceed to an umpire.  An umpire should be an impartial and competent individual, who has been agreed upon by both the insured and the insurer.  In the rare case where an umpire can not be agreed upon, the decision will be turned over to the courts and they will be responsible for choosing an umpire.  The umpire is ultimately responsible for settling the amount of loss, after considering the findings submitted by the appraisers of both parties involved.

Once an umpire is agreed upon, they will take into account the information gained by both appraisers along with the expertise and background in such matters and render a decision on the amount of loss.  The award can only become final if two of the three parties agree.  The use of an umpire is the last step in the appraisal process, and the decision rendered by the umpire is final.