By Joseph T. Ellington Jr. – Licensed Residential Appraiser, Capital Valuations.
UAD 3.6 in 2026: the appraisal report transition
The earlier version of this article looked ahead to a 2025 overhaul. The rollout has since begun. The Uniform Appraisal Dataset (UAD) 3.6 and redesigned Uniform Residential Appraisal Report (URAR) change how eligible mortgage appraisals are structured and submitted. This article is a dated status guide for September 2026; consult the latest Fannie Mae UAD page for changes after publication.
Current rollout dates
| Milestone | Date | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Limited production | September 8, 2025 | Initial production submissions by participating lenders |
| Broad production | January 26, 2026 | All lenders permitted to submit UAD 3.6 reports |
| Mandate | November 2, 2026 | New submissions on loans sold to the GSEs must use UAD 3.6 under the published transition rules |
These milestones are from Fannie Mae’s broad-production announcement and current UAD resources. Pipeline revisions and precise lender requirements require checking the current implementation guidance.
What changes for an appraiser?
The redesigned report has structured property and valuation data, updated forms and reference guides, and new reporting instructions. Fannie Mae has published inspection tips, photo requirements, sample scenarios, quality and condition guidance, and ANSI reporting resources. The form does not replace an appraiser’s independent research, comparable-sale analysis, or obligation to follow the applicable assignment requirements.
What changes for a homeowner?
Appraisers and property-data collectors may request detailed information about features, additions, condition, and improvements depending on the assignment. Keep a dated property information packet and make relevant areas accessible if an inspection is scheduled. A more detailed report format does not guarantee a higher or lower value. For the visit itself, see our home appraisal appointment guide.
How ANSI fits in
Measurement and area reporting are related but separate topics. Our ANSI Z765-2021 explainer covers current Fannie Mae guidance, above- and below-grade areas, and desktop-appraisal differences.
Does this apply to every appraisal?
No. UAD 3.6’s GSE mortgage-report transition should not be conflated with every private, estate, divorce, or tax-purpose assignment. Ask the intended user or lender which report format and scope apply. Contact Capital Valuations about a specific appraisal purpose; we do not promise a value based on the report format.
