Under USPAP Confidentiality, which statement is most accurate?

• A. Assignment results can be disclosed to any party
• B. Physical characteristics must always be kept confidential
• C. The appraiser may disclose confidential information freely
• D. The appraiser must not disclose assignment results to unauthorized parties but may disclose non-confidential information as defined by the ETHICS RULE

Answer: (D)

Under USPAP, confidentiality means the appraiser must protect information obtained during the assignment and limit disclosure to those with a legitimate need or legal right. Assignment results are part of the confidential work product, so sharing them with unauthorized parties isn’t allowed. The ETHICS RULE also defines non-confidential information that may be disclosed without client consent, such as information that is public or otherwise not confidential. So the appraiser is restricted from sharing confidential assignment results, but may disclose information that isn’t confidential as defined by the ETHICS RULE.