Section 9-9-10. Award to be in writing; copies furnished; time of making award; waiver

   (a) The award shall be in writing and signed by the arbitrators joining in the award. The arbitrators shall deliver a copy of the award to each party personally or by registered or certified mail or statutory overnight delivery, return receipt requested, or as provided in the agreement.

(b) An award shall be made within the time fixed therefor by the agreement or, if not so fixed, within 30 days following the close of the hearing or within such time as the court orders. The parties may extend in writing the time either before or after its expiration. A party waives the objection that an award was not made within the time required unless he notifies in writing the arbitrators of his objection prior to the delivery of the award to him.

Code 1933, § 7-311, enacted by Ga. L. 1978, p. 2270, § 1; Code 1981, § 9-9-90; Code 1981, § 9-9-10, as redesignated by Ga. L. 1988, p. 903, § 1; Ga. L. 2000, p. 1589, § 3.