If a trainee disagrees with changes made by a supervising appraiser, what should the trainee do regarding the report certification?

The correct response for a trainee who disagrees with changes made by a supervising appraiser is to not sign the certification. This scenario is important because the certification of the appraisal report signifies that the individual signing it is in agreement with the content and the conclusions reached in the report. If a trainee does not agree with the changes made by the supervising appraiser, signing the report would imply consent and acceptance of those changes, even though the trainee holds a differing opinion.

By choosing not to sign the certification, the trainee maintains their integrity and professionalism, indicating that they cannot support the report as it was altered. This action can prompt an important discussion between the trainee and the supervising appraiser about the specific changes and help educate the trainee on professional standards and practices in appraisal work.

It is imperative in the field of appraisal to ensure that all parties involved in the certification of a report can stand by the conclusions drawn. Therefore, withholding their signature is the appropriate action for a trainee who disagrees with specific changes, as it aligns with ethical standards and the principles outlined in USPAP.