Canadian appraiser credentials
A plain-English overview of the most common residential appraisal designations in Canada — and how to verify standing before you hire.
Most Canadian residential appraisers hold one or more designations. The most widely recognized national designations are the Canadian Residential Appraiser (CRA) and the Accredited Appraiser Canadian Institute (AACI), administered by the Appraisal Institute of Canada (AIC). Some appraisers hold the Designated Appraiser Residential (DAR) credential through CNAREA, and some provinces have additional licensing frameworks.
A designation signals education, experience, and adherence to professional standards. It does not guarantee that a specific appraiser is the right fit for your property or your assignment.
Before you hire, ask the appraiser for their current designation status, professional liability (E&O) insurance, and confirmation that the report format will be acceptable to the party that will rely on it.
You can verify designation status directly with the relevant professional body. HomeAppraisers.ca does not verify credentials in real time and does not endorse any association.
For more reading see our designations guide.