If a client asks an appraiser to omit their identity from the appraisal report, what can the appraiser do?

When a client requests the omission of their identity from the appraisal report, it is essential for the appraiser to adhere to professional standards while respecting the client's wishes. Omitting the client's identity from the report, but still identifying the client in the workfile, is a reasonable approach.

This practice ensures that the appraisal report is compliant with client confidentiality preferences while also maintaining necessary records for accountability and verification purposes. Identifying the client in the workfile allows the appraiser to fulfill their responsibilities under the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), which requires keeping a workfile with supporting documentation for the appraisal. This balance of confidentiality and compliance is crucial in maintaining professional integrity and following ethical guidelines in the appraisal industry.