NEAA

Dear Shop Owner,

Have your customers had any disputes with insurance companies this year regarding the cost of vehicle repairs? Have any of your customers needed to invoke their insurance policy’s Right to Appraisal clause? 

The New England Association of Arbitrators is here to help! 

As you are likely aware, on March 12, 2025, an amendment was introduced to the Rhode Island General Laws regarding the Right to Appraisal process, Chapter 27-10.4-1, Motor Vehicle Appraisal Provision. A significant change is that the customer is now responsible for selecting an umpire if the appraisers (one chosen by the insured or claimant and the other by the insurance company) are unable to reach an agreement on repairs and cannot agree on an umpire to decide the case. 

The provision requires the insured or claimant to obtain an umpire from an independent association for arbitration. This is where the New England Association of Arbitrators (NEAA) comes in. Our organization was established to meet the need for such an association in New England, ensuring consumers, like your customers, have access to umpires familiar with the local auto collision repair landscape. 

To join the NEAA as an umpire, specifically for Rhode Island cases, an individual must be a licensed appraiser, have at least two (2) years of experience, be committed to ethical, impartial, and professional conduct, and be dedicated to ongoing professional development, staying informed of industry trends and standards, relevant statutes, and OEM repair procedures. 

We are reaching out to you directly because you have customers who might need this service but aren’t sure where to go. But now you do! Guide them to the New England Association of Arbitrators Member List. There, they can view profiles of Rhode Island appraisers who meet the specific criteria and get the contact information for the appraiser they choose. Additionally, if a member performs appraisals, their profile will be marked accordingly. 

Our website also provides information about the organization, the Right to Appraisal Process, and our role in it. This resource is helpful not only for your customer but also for anyone needing assistance in understanding the process. 

http://www.NewEnglandArbitrators.com

Lastly, if you know any licensed appraisers who qualify for membership and may be interested in joining, please share our NEAA Membership Application with them.

We appreciate the support you give to your customers and look forward to being a resource in the Right to Appraisal process for all.

Please reach out if you have any questions.