UAD 3.6 readiness checklist for appraisers
Updated October 2026
To be ready for UAD 3.6, confirm five things before your first live report: your software produces UAD 3.6 and the MISMO 3.6 package, you have run a practice file, you know each lender's requirement, you can deliver to UCDP through your lender or AMC, and your workfile retention is in order. New UCDP submissions must be UAD 3.6 from November 2, 2026. The mandatory date timeline has the full schedule.
Use the checklist below. Items marked "ask" depend on your lender or vendor, so we do not state an answer for them.
1. Software
- [ ] My software produces the redesigned URAR and states UAD 3.6 support in writing (ask the vendor).
- [ ] It exports the MISMO 3.6 XML and the UAD 3.6 ZIP package (format details).
- [ ] It can run UAD compliance checks, or connects to the GSE UAD Compliance API (ask the vendor).
- [ ] I know the vendor's training and testing timeframes. The GSEs tell appraisers to work with their software vendor on these.
- [ ] I have compared options if my current vendor has no clear date (UAD 3.6 software comparison).
2. Know the new report
- [ ] I have read how the URAR differs from the legacy forms (UAD 3.6 vs UAD 2.6).
- [ ] I have read the rewritten condition and quality definitions (Freddie Mac, PDF).
- [ ] I have looked at the GSE sample scenarios and reference guides linked from the Freddie Mac FAQ.
- [ ] I know the Restricted Appraisal Update Report and Completion Report are now separate reports, each tied to an existing UAD 3.6 submission.
3. Lenders and engagement letters
- [ ] I asked each lender and AMC which standard (UAD 2.6 or 3.6) they want for reports I deliver now, and for reports delivered from November 2, 2026. The GSE FAQ says the engagement letter should indicate which standard applies.
- [ ] I know which clients may be using a temporary GSE policy exception for UAD 2.6 and until when (timeline). Appraisers do not request this; sellers do.
- [ ] For construction work, I know how the lender wants a completion handled when the original appraisal was UAD 2.6.
Run a practice file through a UAD 3.6 workfile before you need it.
Property Appraiser Pro checks delivery readiness and lists what to fix. Early access is open.
Get Early Access →4. Test and delivery
- [ ] I produced at least one practice UAD 3.6 report and package from a past assignment and reviewed every compliance message.
- [ ] I know how my lender or AMC wants to receive the file and who submits it to UCDP. Ask which portal or channel they use, and test with them where you can.
- [ ] I confirmed the package opens, the images are in it, and the XML and PDF match.
UAD 3.6 delivery explains what a delivery package contains.
5. Workfile retention
- [ ] My workfile for each assignment is complete and stored where I can retrieve it.
- [ ] I know the retention period that applies to me. USPAP's Record Keeping Rule requires a workfile, and state boards or clients can add requirements. Check the current text from The Appraisal Foundation and your state board.
- [ ] My software does not let me delete a workfile I still need to retain. See USPAP workfile software.
6. Where Property Appraiser Pro fits
Property Appraiser Pro is a web-based workfile with a delivery-readiness check that lists blocking issues and warnings in plain language, a MISMO 3.6 package builder, and a retention clock that blocks deletion before the retention date it sets. You review, edit and sign every report; the AI only drafts. Plans are listed on the pricing page. Whether a given lender or AMC portal accepts the package is checked path by path, so confirm with yours.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need to be ready for UAD 3.6?
Software that produces UAD 3.6 reports and the MISMO 3.6 ZIP package, a successful test or practice report, training on the redesigned URAR and its rewritten condition and quality definitions, a clear lender-by-lender answer on which standard each client wants, and a workfile retention process. The GSEs say appraisers should work with their software vendor on functionality, training and testing timeframes.
How do I know which standard a lender wants?
Ask, and put it in the engagement letter. Freddie Mac’s FAQ says the engagement letter should indicate which standard applies, and lenders may stage their rollouts. Before November 2, 2026, either UAD 2.6 or 3.6 may be accepted; after that date, new submissions must be UAD 3.6 unless the lender sells under a GSE policy exception.
Can I check a report against the UAD compliance rules?
Yes. The GSEs publish UAD 3.6 compliance rules and a UAD Compliance API that lets appraisers run compliance checks through their software provider. Ask your vendor whether and how it surfaces those checks.
Do I need to keep my workfile after delivering a UAD 3.6 report?
Yes. USPAP’s Record Keeping Rule requires appraisers to keep a workfile for each assignment, and states and clients can add requirements. Check the current USPAP text from The Appraisal Foundation and your state board for the exact retention period that applies to you.
Do I need to wait until November 2 to try UAD 3.6?
No. Broad production began January 26, 2026, and all lenders may use UAD 3.6 now. Starting early lets you find software and package problems before a deadline-driven assignment.
Sources: Freddie Mac UAD 3.6 and Forms Redesign FAQ, GSE timeline fact sheet (PDF).