27-5-213. Hearing. Unless otherwise provided by the agreement, the following apply:

(1) The arbitrators shall appoint a time and place for the hearing and cause notification to the parties to be served personally or by certified mail not less than 5 days before the hearing. Appearance at the hearing waives such notice. The arbitrators may adjourn the hearing from time to time as necessary and, on request of a party and for good cause or upon their own motion, may postpone the hearing to a time not later than the date fixed by the agreement for making the award unless the parties consent to a later date. The arbitrators may hear and determine the controversy upon the evidence produced, notwithstanding the failure of a party duly notified to appear. The district court on application may direct the arbitrators to proceed promptly with the hearing and determination of the controversy.

(2) The parties are entitled to be heard, present evidence material to the controversy, and cross-examine witnesses appearing at the hearing.

(3) The hearing must be conducted by all the arbitrators, but a majority may determine any question and render a final award. If during the course of the hearing an arbitrator for any reason ceases to act, the remaining arbitrator or arbitrators appointed to act as neutrals may continue with the hearing and determination of the controversy.