NEAA

Your Source for Qualified Appraisal Umpires.

Process & Information Guide

Using the NEAA to Select an Umpire: Process & Information Guide

Thank you for considering the New England Association of Arbitrators (NEAA) as a resource in your Right to Appraisal process. 

This document outlines how you, as a consumer, can use NEAA to help select an impartial umpire to assist in resolving a dispute between you and your insurance company regarding the value of auto damage.

What Is the Right to Appraisal?

The Right to Appraisal is a provision found in many auto insurance policies. When there is a disagreement over the value of a loss (such as vehicle damage), you, or in some states, the insurance company, can invoke this right. Each side selects a qualified appraiser, and those two appraisers attempt to agree on the value. If they cannot reach an agreement, they must then agree on a neutral third party, called an umpire, to make a binding decision. 

In some cases, the two appraisers are unable to agree on an umpire, and this responsibility may then fall upon the consumer. 

Note: Every state’s guidelines and/or legislature on the matter of Right to Appraisals are different. Consult your state’s legislature for specific rules and required timeframes. 

The Role of NEAA

The New England Association of Arbitrators (NEAA) is a neutral, membership-based organization that maintains a directory of vetted, qualified, licensed auto damage appraisers who serve as umpires in appraisal clause disputes.

NEAA’s sole role is to provide consumers and insurance professionals with access to a list of independent umpires who meet specific standards of experience, licensing, ethics, and professionalism.

NEAA does not assign, appoint, or manage umpires for any case. The responsibility of selecting an umpire lies with the parties involved in the dispute. Specific rules or statutes governing the selection of an umpire vary by state. 

Step-by-Step Process for Using NEAA

Note: As stated above, every state’s guidelines and/or legislature on the matter of Right to Appraisals are different. The below represents a general outline of the process; however, you should consult your state’s legislature for specific rules and required timeframes. 

  1. Confirm the Appraisal Clause Applies
    1. Check your auto insurance policy or consult with a professional to confirm that the Right to Appraisal clause applies to your situation.
    1. You must invoke this right in writing, typically by notifying your insurer.
  2. Select Your Appraiser
    1. You will need to choose and retain a licensed auto damage appraiser to represent you in the process.
    1. Your appraiser and the insurance company’s appraiser will first try to reach an agreement on the value.
  3. When an Umpire and NEAA Is Needed
    1. If your appraiser and the insurer’s appraiser cannot come to an agreement, they will select a mutually agreed-upon umpire. 
    1. If your appraiser and the insurer’s appraiser cannot agree on an umpire, it may become your responsibility to choose an umpire. NEAA can assist you with this step by providing access to a directory of qualified umpires.
  4. Using the NEAA Directory
    1. Visit our Directory Page.
    1. Review profiles of available umpires, which include their licensing information, experience, state coverage, and a short bio.
  5. Select and Contact the Umpire
    1. Once you have decided on an umpire, use the contact information provided in their profile to communicate with them and submit the necessary documentation for their review.
    1. NEAA does not act as an intermediary in contact, scheduling, or fees. Each umpire has their own fee schedule, which they will provide to you upon contact. 

Once the umpire is chosen, he or she will review all applicable documentation to make a final decision and provide that information directly to you and/or anyone you indicate. 

Important Notes About NEAA’s Role

  • NEAA does not act as an umpire or representative for either party.
  • NEAA does not assign or recommend specific umpires.
  • Umpires listed are independent contractors, not employees or agents of NEAA.
  • NEAA does not guarantee the outcome of any appraisal case.
  • No legal advice or representation is provided by NEAA.
  • NEAA does not manage payments, including appraisal fees, umpire fees, or award disbursements. 

Feedback and Concerns

While NEAA does not oversee the arbitration process itself, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism among our members.

If you have concerns or would like to submit feedback about an NEAA member, please contact us via our website or email at feedback@newenglandarbitrators.org. 

We review all complaints and will take appropriate action if a member is found to be in violation of NEAA’s code of conduct.

Final Reminders

  • The decision to appoint an umpire must be made in accordance with your policy’s Appraisal Clause and applicable state statutes.
  • Use the NEAA directory as a tool, but ultimate selection and engagement are your responsibility, or the responsibility of any party you appoint to act on your behalf.
  • It is your responsibility to ensure that your appraiser and the selected umpire comply with all relevant rules and statutes.

For more information or to browse the NEAA umpire directory, please visit:
📍 http://www.NewEnglandArbitrators.org

For questions, email us at:
📧 contact@newenglandarbitrators.org