Category: Appraisal, Insurance Appraisers

When an appointed Umpire in an insurance appraisal becomes unresponsive for months, the entire process can stall — leaving policyholders without resolution and appraisers under pressure. This article explains when it’s appropriate to request a new Umpire, who has the authority to make that change, and how fees are typically handled if the Umpire has already been paid. It also outlines best practices for documenting communication, seeking mutual consent, or petitioning the court when necessary. Replacing an Umpire isn’t ideal, but when prolonged inaction undermines the purpose of appraisal, substitution may be both justified and necessary.