By: Scott Bonvissuto

While it’s unlikely that you will find “Real Estate Appraiser” on a list of the hazardous professions, those who make a living doing that job can tell you that it has its share of dangers. From unsafe structures to unsafe neighborhoods to run-ins with unruly owners or their pets, there are a number of things that can threaten the safety of a real estate appraiser. 

The following tips can help to ensure that appraisals can be completed without accidents or unnecessary delays.

Don’t Work Alone

Ideally, an appraiser will work with a coworker who provides a second set of eyes or give assistance as needed. However, if doing so is cost prohibitive or unattainable for another reason, appraisers should ensure that they check in regularly with a friend or colleague with updates on where they are and how they are progressing. If a problem arises, they should immediately alert someone who can provide assistance or send help.

For appraisers working with a central office, providing a schedule of the stops that will be made throughout your day can serve as a valuable safety measure. That way, if the schedule changes for any reason, the office should be informed. Appraisers can also let the office know when they have completed an appointment and are moving on to the next.

Ensuring that your phone is fully charged is one simple safety tip that can easily be overlooked. In a dangerous situation, a dead battery can prevent you from connecting with someone who could provide help.

Secure your Possessions Before Leaving your Vehicle

Most real estate appraisals take at least 30 minutes, but depending on the property, they can take as long as a few hours. Opportunistic thieves need only a few moments to gain access to a vehicle, which means an appraiser’s vehicle left unsupervised for even a short period of time is vulnerable to a break-in.

With recent statistics showing auto break-ins on the rise, it’s essential that appraisers secure their possession before leaving their vehicles. In-vehicle safes such as the Console Vault provide an option that is hidden and secure. Firearms, electronics, and other valuables can stay protected in an in-vehicle safe during a smash-and-grab attempt.

Assume The Worst

Talk to those who have spent years working as appraisers and you will definitely hear some horror stories. For instance, vacant properties can hide any number of surprises, including rotten floorboards or unauthorized and uncooperative occupants. In some cases, it’s disgruntled or unscrupulous legal occupants who make an appraisal difficult or dangerous.

The more appraisers assume the worst, the better prepared they will be when they encounter it. For example, if owners or renters occupy the house and they have a dog, assume the dog will bite. Asking that a pet be restrained can avoid problems.

It’s not unusual for homeowners to be averse to the appraisal process. They may feel that past appraisals have undervalued their homes or they may simply feel uncomfortable with a stranger having full access to their home. When refused access by a homeowner, whatever the reason, appraisers should comply, as forcing your way into a home can lead to an unsafe altercation.  

Moving slowly and vigilantly through a vacant home can help to reveal threats before they become problems. If structures look unsafe, proceed with caution, and if there are signs of occupants — either human or otherwise — loudly and clearly announcing your presence and your intentions can bring them out into the open. Doing an inspection of the exterior of the property first can provide hints, such as a broken window or other signs of ingress, as to what might be found inside.

In general, property appraisers can stay safe by being prepared and staying alert. Before arriving at the property, they should make sure they have everything they need to conduct a safe and thorough appraisal, including a way to secure valuables in their vehicle. During the appraisal inspection, they should be aware of any scenarios that could threaten their safety. And if they feel threatened in any way, they should always put safety first and connect with a colleague or leave immediately.

– Scott Bonvissuto is the President of Console Vault, a company that designs and produces in-vehicle safes that provide security, styling, and durability to owners of a wide and ever-growing range of vehicles.

Published by: Holy Minoza