What qualifies as confidential information under USPAP?

Confidential information under the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) is specifically defined as any information obtained by the appraiser from the client that is designated as confidential. This includes any data, opinions, or advice provided during the appraisal process that the client wishes to keep private and not disclose to others.

When a client marks certain information as confidential, it signifies that the appraiser must take precautions to protect that information and cannot reveal it without the client's consent. This is essential to maintain trust between the appraiser and the client and to uphold ethical standards in the appraisal profession.

On the other hand, information available in public records, data collected from market research, and details observed during a property inspection do not qualify as confidential because they are either readily accessible to the public or can be obtained through means other than direct communication with the client. Understanding the distinction between confidential information and publicly available data is crucial for appraisers to ensure they adhere to USPAP requirements and protect client confidentiality.