Coming soon: The Appraiser and Umpire Association is not yet an active association and is not accepting members or issuing certifications at this time. We are NOT affiliated with the IAUA (Insurance Appraisal and Umpire Association).
Appraiser & UmpireAssociation
PCUS

Property Claim Umpire Specialist (PCUS)

A private professional certification for umpires who resolve disputes between appraisers under insurance policy appraisal clauses.

To earn the Property Claim Umpire Specialist (PCUS) credential, you must be an active AUA member, be approved by the AUA Credential Review Committee on the basis of relevant experience and/or a signed endorsement from an opposing appraiser, complete 14 classroom hours, and score at least 85% on a 100-question, 120-minute exam and on a practical umpire assessment.

Eligibility and requirements

  • Active AUA membership
  • 14 instructor-led classroom hours over two days
  • Evidence of relevant experience and/or a signed endorsement from an opposing appraiser
  • Review and approval by the AUA Credential Review Committee
  • 100-question, 120-minute knowledge exam, minimum score 85%
  • Practical umpire assessment, minimum score 85%

What the classroom program covers

The two-day PCUS program, taught by Neal McLoughlin, EdD, covers:

  • The umpire's role and how umpires are appointed
  • Neutrality, disclosure and conflicts of interest
  • Evidence review and resolving scope and valuation disputes
  • Hearings, procedure and communication with both appraisers
  • Award drafting, with a full case simulation

The exams

Approved candidates take a 100-question, 120-minute knowledge exam and a practical umpire assessment, and need at least 85% on each. Applications and supporting letters are reviewed consistently by the AUA Credential Review Committee. Course completion alone does not confer certification.

Renewal

AUA credentials are valid for two years. Renewal requires good standing, compliance with the AUA Code of Conduct, and 14 AUA-approved continuing education hours during the two-year term.

Why the umpire standard is higher

An umpire's decision, joined by one appraiser, typically sets the amount of loss for both sides. That is why the PCUS requires pre-approval, a longer exam and a higher passing score than the appraiser credential. Learn more about what an insurance umpire does.

Property Claim Appraisal Specialist (PCAS) and Property Claim Umpire Specialist (PCUS) are credential designations of Appraisal and Umpire Association Corp. They are not affiliated with any appraiser or umpire credential issued by another organization, including the Insurance Appraisal and Umpire Association (IAUA). AUA credentials are private professional credentials, not state licenses, and course completion alone does not confer certification. AUA is not yet issuing credentials.

For Information

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the PCUS?

AUA members who can document relevant appraisal or claims experience and/or provide a signed endorsement from an opposing appraiser. The AUA Credential Review Committee reviews every application.

What score do I need to pass the PCUS exam?

At least 85% on the 100-question, 120-minute knowledge exam and at least 85% on the practical umpire assessment.

How long is the PCUS credential valid?

Two years, renewed with 14 AUA-approved CE hours, good standing and compliance with the AUA Code of Conduct.