Question:

I was recently asked to perform an appraisal assignment but the individual that contacted my firm was not the client and indicated that the client could not be identified.  Can I accept this assignment and comply with USPAP?

Response:

No. Standards Rule 1-2 states, in part:

In developing a real property appraisal, an appraiser must:

(a)

identify the client and other intended users;…

This does not preclude a third party, acting as an agent for the client, from ordering the appraisal; however, the appraiser must be able to identify the client. Refer to STATEMENT No. 9, Identification of Intended Use and Intended Users, for further clarification.