How to check
- Read your policy form: look for "Arbitration" or "Dispute Resolution"
- Check endorsements, which can add or remove arbitration
- Distinguish arbitration from appraisal (appraisal is for amount only)
Arbitration vs. appraisal vs. litigation
- Appraisal: amount of loss only
- Arbitration: any dispute, typically binding, private
- Litigation: public, broader discovery, right to jury
When you see arbitration at renewal
Consider this factor when comparing carriers: an arbitration clause meaningfully changes your rights at claim time.