If an appraiser observes actual or suspected contamination, the appropriate action to take is to

If an appraiser observes actual or suspected contamination, the appropriate action to take is to

• A. Notify authorities only
• B. Ignore it
• C. Notify the client and discuss it with them
• D. Delay the appraisal

Answer: (C)

Transparency about known or suspected hazards is essential in appraisal practice. If contamination is observed, the appraiser must inform the client so they understand the risk and the potential impact on value and marketability. Discussing it with the client allows them to decide on the next steps—whether that means arranging testing or remediation, adjusting the value in light of the risk, or choosing how to proceed with the assignment. This approach protects the client’s interests, supports informed decision-making, and aligns with ethical standards that require disclosure of information likely to affect value or risk. Delaying the appraisal, ignoring the issue, or notifying only authorities without involving the client would fail to provide complete information and could mislead stakeholders.

Transparency about known or suspected hazards is essential in appraisal practice. If contamination is observed, the appraiser must inform the client so they understand the risk and the potential impact on value and marketability. Discussing it with the client allows them to decide on the next steps—whether that means arranging testing or remediation, adjusting the value in light of the risk, or choosing how to proceed with the assignment. This approach protects the client’s interests, supports informed decision-making, and aligns with ethical standards that require disclosure of information likely to affect value or risk. Delaying the appraisal, ignoring the issue, or notifying only authorities without involving the client would fail to provide complete information and could mislead stakeholders.