First, what is actually changing?

UAD stands for Uniform Appraisal Dataset, the standard used to deliver appraisal information to the government-sponsored enterprises through the Uniform Collateral Data Portal (UCDP). UAD 3.6 brings the redesigned URAR: instead of selecting a familiar form number such as 1004 or 1073, the report’s sections adapt to the property and assignment. Broad production began in January 2026, so some lenders can already use it while others are still preparing.

The key deadline is the initial submission to UCDP, not the loan application, inspection or appraisal effective date. That makes pipeline planning essential as November approaches. This deadline addresses appraisals delivered through the GSE system; it does not turn every private appraisal into a UAD 3.6 assignment.

What might change during the property visit?

For assignments that call for an interior and exterior observation, the appraiser will want reliable notes about more individual components. The GSEs’ Inspection and Reporting Tips identify more explicit reporting for kitchen and bath update and condition, roof age estimates, converted areas, accessory dwelling units, solar ownership, and defects or deficiencies. Specific fields apply when relevant. A homeowner can help by making agreed-upon areas accessible and providing permits, renovation dates, solar agreements, floor plans or green certifications when available.

That does not make an appraisal a home inspection. The appraiser’s job remains to develop a supported value opinion under the assignment’s scope, not to certify systems as a home inspector would. UAD 3.6 also supports exterior, desktop and hybrid assignments when applicable lender policy permits them.

Will the appraisal take longer?

There is no universal new inspection length or report turnaround. Early assignments may require more time to learn software, record the right details, resolve missing information and address data-validation questions. A straightforward home with complete records may move efficiently; a property with an ADU, nonstandard space, significant changes or unclear documentation may need extra research. As appraisers and lenders gain practice, the effect on timing may change. Ask your lender or appraisal provider for a realistic assignment-specific timeline rather than adding a fixed number of days to every order.

What each party can do now

Homeowners: gather improvement dates, plans, permits and energy-system ownership records; provide access as arranged. Agents: share accurate listing facts, room and area information, property features, and relevant sales without trying to steer an opinion of value. Lenders and AMCs: confirm the requested UAD version, train staff, test vendor software, monitor portal feedback and manage reports near the November submission cutoff. Clear instructions at assignment start can prevent avoidable rework.