What is the best advice for an appraiser who has had a fair housing complaint filed against them?

• A. Publicly apologize
• B. Change license
• C. Refuse to discuss the case
• D. Contact their E&O insurer immediately

Answer: (D)

When a fair housing complaint arises, the best first move is to contact the E&O insurer right away. These policies are designed to handle the costs of defending professional liability claims and can coordinate with regulators, HUD, or other agencies involved. Prompt notice helps preserve coverage, ensures defense counsel can be engaged quickly, and guides you through what information to provide and how to respond without compromising the case. Publicly apologizing before the facts are clear can complicate defense and potential liability, while changing licenses isn’t an immediate fix and refusing to discuss the case misses the step of getting proper guidance and documentation in order. The insurer’s guidance and defense support are the most practical, protective course of action.