Appraiser Liability Trends: Litigation Risks for Commercial and Residential Appraisers

The Appraisal Institute is proud to present this webinar in partnership with Liability Insurance Administrators (LIA)—the only Errors & Omissions program endorsed by the Appraisal Institute since 1991, and the largest program in the U.S. dedicated to appraisal professionals. In addition to E&O, AI members now also have access to LIA’s endorsed General Liability and Cyber Liability Insurance products, offering comprehensive protection for today’s evolving risks. 
  
Presenter: Steven Bauer, Attorney, Gaglione, Dolan & Kaplan 
  
During this session, experienced outside counsel will spotlight the latest litigation trends and liability risks impacting both residential and commercial appraisers. Attendees will walk away with practical strategies for risk management, a stronger understanding of how claims arise, and best practices for mitigating exposure in a shifting legal landscape. 
  
Key Litigation Issues to Be Covered: 

• Overvaluation and Undervaluation Claims
  • Why appraisers are frequently drawn into disputes when market performance, foreclosures, or resales differ from their opinions of value. 
• Bias and Fair Housing Allegations
  • The rising wave of appraisal bias claims, federal scrutiny, and how appraisers can protect themselves through sound practice and documentation. 
• Engagement Letter and Scope of Work Disputes 
  • How unclear assignment terms create litigation risk—and steps to ensure clarity and defensibility.
• Third-Party Liability
  • Expanding exposure from borrowers, buyers, and others outside the client relationship, and strategies to limit liability. 
• Regulatory and Disciplinary Proceedings 
  • The interplay between board complaints, federal investigations, and civil claims. 
• Risk Management Best Practices 
• Practical steps appraisers can take to reduce exposure—including maintaining independence, careful recordkeeping, and leveraging liability insurance.