When you sign an appraisal report, you’re not just finalizing a document—you’re certifying compliance with USPAP, professional credibility, and legal defensibility.
Even experienced personal property appraisers can miss small—but critical—details during tight deadlines or complex assignments. A missing exposure time statement, an unclear scope of work, or inconsistent use definitions can create big problems later.
That’s why having a USPAP-based pre-signature checklist is essential.
Below are 12 must‑confirm items every personal property appraiser should review before signing a report, whether it’s for insurance, estate, charitable contribution, divorce, or damage claims.
1. The Intended Use Is Clear and Correct
USPAP requires the intended use of the appraisal to be identified and consistent throughout the report.
✅ Confirm the report explicitly states why the appraisal was performed
✅ Ensure the use aligns with value type (e.g., Insurance ≠ Fair Market Value)
✅ Watch for copied boilerplate that contradicts the actual assignment
Common pitfall: Using insurance language in an estate or tax appraisal.
2. The Intended User(s) Are Properly Identified
The intended user is not always just the client.
✅ Confirm all intended users are named or clearly described
✅ Ensure access limitations are consistent with intended users
✅ Avoid vague phrases like “any party who relies on this report”
3. The Correct Definition of Value Is Used
Personal property appraisals frequently involve:
- Fair Market Value
- Replacement Cost
- Market Value
- Liquidation Value
✅ Verify the definition is USPAP-recognized or appropriately cited
✅ Confirm it matches the intended use
✅ Ensure no conflicting value definitions appear elsewhere in the report
4. Effective Date of Value Is Stated (and Logical)
USPAP requires a clear effective date—and it must make sense.
✅ Confirm a single effective date (unless prospective or retrospective)
✅ Ensure it aligns with inspection dates, market research, and scenario
✅ Watch for default dates accidentally carried over from templates
5. Scope of Work Is Adequate—and Defensible
This is one of the most scrutinized USPAP elements.
✅ Level of inspection is clearly stated
✅ Research methods are described (market, comparable sourcing)
✅ Limitations are disclosed honestly—not buried
Tip: Ask yourself, “Could another qualified appraiser understand what I did and why?”
6. Property Identification Is Specific and Complete
For personal property appraisers, vague object descriptions are a red flag.
✅ Object descriptions include creator/maker, materials, condition, and size
✅ Photographs clearly correspond to item numbers
✅ Grouped items are logically grouped and explained
7. Condition Statements Are Consistent
Condition directly affects value—especially for art, antiques, and collectibles.
✅ Condition terminology is consistent and explained
✅ No condition contradictions between descriptions and conclusions
✅ Damage, restoration, or wear is disclosed clearly
8. Market Analysis Supports the Conclusion
USPAP requires credible results, not just opinions.
✅ Comparable sales are relevant and current
✅ Adjustments are logical and explained
✅ Extraordinary assumptions or hypothetical conditions are clearly labeled
9. Exhibits and Addenda Are Accurate
Often overlooked—but often referenced.
✅ Photos match item numbers and descriptions
✅ Certificates, invoices, or provenance are properly labeled
✅ No placeholder language remains in addenda
10. Limiting Conditions & Assumptions Are Appropriate
Standard boilerplate is fine—but must be relevant.
✅ No irrelevant real estate language remains
✅ Legal, title, and authenticity assumptions are appropriate
✅ Assumptions do not contradict factual findings
11. Certification Is Complete and USPAP-Compliant
USPAP certification language is not optional.
✅ Includes all required USPAP statements
✅ Signed and dated by the appraiser
✅ Appraiser name matches credential records
12. Nothing Conflicts Anywhere in the Report
Before you sign, do a conflict sweep.
✅ Intended use matches value definition everywhere
✅ Dates are consistent throughout
✅ No internal contradictions between narrative, tables, and conclusions
Why a Pre‑Signature Checklist Matters
A USPAP-compliant report isn’t just about meeting standards—it’s about:
- Reducing revision requests
- Surviving legal or IRS scrutiny
- Protecting your professional reputation
- Saving time on corrections later
Many experienced appraisers keep a personal signing checklist just like this—and review it every time, no matter how routine the assignment feels.
Make Report Reviews Faster (and Less Stressful)
Modern appraisal software can help ensure USPAP elements aren’t overlooked, especially when managing complex collections or high volumes of objects.
If you’d like help streamlining your appraisal workflow—or reducing manual USPAP checks—we’re happy to talk.
➡️ Contact Collectorpro Software to explore smarter report management for personal property appraisers.
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Headquartered in Lucas, Texas, Collectorpro Software Inc is a minority woman-owned business that serves clients across the United States and internationally. Their commitment to customer support, training, and continuous improvement has earned them a loyal user base and a respected reputation in the appraisal industry.
Find out more at the Collectorpro Website
