The interlocutory order of the superior court, from which the plaintiff appealed, affects a substantial right which the plaintiff will lose if the order is not reviewed before final judgment. Waters v. Qualified Personnel, Inc., 294 N.C. 200, 240 S.E.2d 338 (1977); Highway Commission v. Nuckles, 271 N.C. 1, 155 S.E.2d 772 (1967). It was error to dismiss the appeal. We reverse the order dismissing the appeal and remand to the Court of Appeals for a hearing on the merits.

REVERSED AND REMANDED.