What does Paragraph 7 of the Nondiscrimination section prohibit an appraiser from doing?

The Nondiscrimination section of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) aims to ensure that appraisers conduct their work in a fair and unbiased manner. Paragraph 7 specifically prohibits an appraiser from basing value on any characteristic protected by the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), such as race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, or the receipt of income from a public assistance program.

This prohibition is critical because it emphasizes the importance of objective and equitable valuation practices. An appraiser must evaluate property without influence from these protected characteristics to uphold the integrity of the appraisal process and promote fair housing practices. This aligns with broader ethical standards in the appraisal profession, ensuring that all individuals receive equal treatment regardless of their personal characteristics.

Understanding this allows appraisers to remain aware of the legal implications surrounding their valuations and reinforces the necessity of maintaining professionalism and fairness throughout their assessments.