When the same transaction or occurrence, or series of transactions or occurrences, gives rise to more than one cause of action and separate actions have been commenced, all such action shall be consolidated for arbitration, referred to the same board of arbitration, and heard together, unless the total amount in controversy exceeds Fifty Thousand and 00/100 ($50,000.00) Dollars, in which case none of them shall be submitted to arbitration. It shall be the duty of every board of arbitrators, before proceeding with the hearing, to ascertain whether or not any such separate action has been commenced.
Clin. Cnty. Pa. 1301.3