What is Considered Significant Assistance in the Inspection
Jul 22, 2026
We sometimes get into the mode of thinking that things just are because they always have been. Today, we need to talk about separating two very different things when it comes to standard practices, specifically regarding the observation of a subject property. The question is straightforward: Is the inspection or observation of the subject property considered significant assistance under USPAP? Let’s dive deep into this with Tim Andersen.
Understanding the Terminology
First off, we need to clarify the language because precision matters. Technically, there is no such thing as "significant assistance" in the rulebook—it is "significant real property appraisal assistance." That distinction is crucial before we can answer the question properly.
Let's look at a practical example. If you hire someone to go out and take photographs of a property, and they send you those pictures along with an invoice, they have not provided you with significant real property appraisal assistance. Simply sending photographs does not help you form a value opinion. You derive that opinion from comparable sales. Even if a photo shows a property is a total dump and requires an upward condition adjustment, you would have known that from the photographs no matter who took them. Taking pictures or having a secretary type up a report is just administrative help, not appraisal assistance.
When Assistance Crosses the Line
Now, when does help actually cross the line into significant real property appraisal assistance? Let’s say you send someone to take pictures, and while they are at the site, they notice that the houses next door and across the street both have "For Sale" signs in the front yard. They stop, talk to the neighbors, and gather listing information showing that these active listings are priced significantly lower than what your subject property is currently under contract for. If they bring that data back to you and suggest you rethink your approach in light of that market information, they have actively contributed to the appraisal process. That is real property appraisal assistance, and you must disclose their name in the report.
The Competency Trap
A lot of appraisers tell me, "Dustin, I’d rather just be safe than sorry and list everyone's name anyway." But doing that actually raises a major problem called the Competency Rule. Competency means you know exactly what USPAP requires and what it doesn't. When you start throwing names into a report just to be safe, you are essentially telling the state board that you are sufficiently unaware of the rules.
While a state board might not heavily penalize you for over-disclosing, it can trigger a letter of counsel regarding your understanding of the Competency Rule. Take the time to know the standards inside and out. Don't let standard practice traps dictate how you run your business. Go out there and create some value!
Check out The Appraiser Coach Podcast for more info on this topic:
