When a property claim reaches an impasse, the appraisal process allows both parties to resolve their disagreement without litigation. Each side selects an appraiser, and when the two appraisers cannot reach an agreement on the amount of loss, the matter is submitted to a neutral third party—the umpire.
Auten Claims Management provides independent, disciplined, and impartial Umpire Services to help resolve these disputes fairly and efficiently.
A Neutral, Evidence-Driven Approach
An umpire’s role is to evaluate the disputed issues objectively and determine the correct amount of loss based on the evidence—not on pressure, personalities, or assumptions. My process emphasizes:
- Independence
- Fairness
- Transparency
- Thorough review of all submitted materials
- Clear and defensible reasoning
This structure ensures that all parties are confident in both the process and the outcome.
What an Umpire Does
As the neutral decision-maker in the appraisal process, I focus on the following responsibilities:
1. Review of Both Appraisers’ Submissions
A full analysis of the competing estimates, supporting documentation, photographs, scope notes, and any additional materials provided by the appraisers.
2. Identification of the Points of Disagreement
Clarifying where the appraisers agree and where they diverge, ensuring the dispute is properly defined.
3. Conferences With the Appraisers
Joint or separate discussions to understand each appraiser’s position and the basis for their conclusions.
4. Site Inspections When Necessary
A physical inspection may be conducted when additional context or firsthand observation is needed to evaluate the disputed issues.
5. Independent Evaluation of Scope, Causation, and Valuation
Applying disciplined methodology to determine what damage is attributable to the loss and what it will reasonably cost to repair or replace.
6. Issuing the Umpire’s Award
Preparing and signing a clear, evidence-based Award that defines the correct amount of loss.
The Award becomes binding when signed by any two of the three participants (one appraiser and the umpire).
Guiding Principles
The appraisal process works best when the umpire is:
- Impartial: No stake in the outcome and no alignment with either party
- Methodical: Careful review, clear reasoning, and proper documentation
- Experienced: Skilled in evaluating complex claim issues
- Efficient: Able to keep the process moving without sacrificing accuracy
- Transparent: Communicating clearly, professionally, and consistently
These principles guide every appointment I accept.
Types of Losses Served
Umpire appointments are available for:
- Residential property claims
- Commercial and industrial losses
- Multi-unit and mixed-use structures
- Complex disputes involving scope, pricing, or causation
- Claims involving partial repairs, matching issues, or code considerations
- Large loss evaluations requiring detailed review and structured documentation
If the dispute concerns the amount of loss, the appraisal provision applies, and an umpire can help bring the matter to resolution.
Structured Methodology
Every appraisal is handled using a defined, repeatable process:
- Conflict Check: Confirmation of neutrality prior to engagement.
- Document Intake: Review of both appraisers’ packages and exhibits.
- Issue Mapping: Clarifying the disputed items and areas of agreement.
- Review & Analysis: Independent evaluation of the submitted materials.
- Conferences: Collaborative discussion to narrow disputes and clarify positions.
- Inspection (If Needed): On-site assessment to support or refute key findings.
- Award Preparation: Drafting the final Award with clear, supportable conclusions.
- Finalization: Execution of the Award and distribution to both appraisers.
This approach maintains fairness, consistency, and full transparency throughout the appraisal process.
Qualifications
My background strengthens my ability to serve as an effective and neutral umpire:
- Over 30 years of adjusting, management, and executive-level claims experience
- Extensive work in both property and liability investigations
- Deep expertise in evaluation, causation, scope analysis, and settlement negotiation
- Instructor, speaker, and published commentator within the insurance industry
- CPCU and AIC professional designations
- Proven commitment to accuracy, impartiality, and structured decision-making
Each appointment draws on this experience to ensure a fair, well-supported result.
Fee Structure
Umpire work is billed on a time and expense basis.
A full fee schedule is available upon request.
Each engagement begins with a confirmation of neutrality, followed by a clear explanation of the process, expectations, and documentation requirements.
Request an Appointment
If you would like to discuss an upcoming appraisal or confirm availability for an umpire appointment, please reach out through our Contact Us page.
I welcome the opportunity to provide fair, neutral, and evidence-based support in moving disputed claims toward resolution.