Question:

What is the primary intent of USPAP?

Response:

The intent of USPAP is to promote and maintain a high level of public trust in professional appraisal practice.  This concept is emphasized at the very beginning of the PREAMBLE:

The purpose of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) is to promote and maintain a high level of public trust in appraisal practice by establishing requirements for appraisers.

The development of “trust” between the general public and the professional appraiser is not unique to the appraisal profession – it is also inherent in other professions such as medical practice and accountancy.

Contained within this notion of “trust” is a relationship that requires the professional to provide more than their skill or expertise. There is a distinct ethical obligation to act in the behalf of the public’s interest, not out of self-interest.  Because of the public interest aspect of the service the public must be able to trust that a professional will act in an ethical and competent manner.