A quiet change in New Hampshire's appraiser licensing law is about to reshape how small appraisal firms hire and train apprentices.
Most New Hampshire real estate and property management owners don't realize that a provision buried in HB1310 has just changed who can supervise apprentice appraisers—and it takes effect 60 days after the bill's passage. If your firm employs or sponsors apprentice appraisers, this matters immediately.
Under Section 1 of HB1310 (amending RSA 310-B:6, I(a)), any certified appraiser who supervises an apprentice must now meet two hard requirements:
This is a floor, not a guideline. If your firm's supervising certified appraiser doesn't meet both conditions, your firm cannot legally onboard or retain apprentice appraisers.
Small to mid-sized appraisal firms are most directly impacted. If you:
—then you need to audit your supervisor's credentials now.
Property management companies that maintain in-house appraisal capacity, or real estate firms that coordinate apprentice training, should also review their staffing structure.
Step 1: Check your supervisor's certification date. If they've been certified for fewer than 2 years, they cannot legally supervise an apprentice under the new rule.
Step 2: Verify disciplinary history. Contact the New Hampshire Board of Real Estate Appraisers and any other state licensing boards where your supervisor holds or has held credentials. You need confirmation of a clean 3-year record.
Step 3: Plan ahead. If your current supervisor doesn't qualify, you have two options: wait until they meet the 2-year and 3-year thresholds, or designate a different certified appraiser who already meets both requirements.
Step 4: Document compliance. Keep records of your supervisor's certification date and disciplinary clearance. The state may request proof during licensing renewals or audits.
This rule tightens oversight of apprentice training. The intent is to ensure that only experienced, clean-record appraisers guide newcomers into the profession. For your firm, it means stricter gatekeeping on who can supervise—and potential disruption if your current supervisor doesn't qualify.
The 60-day window from passage gives you time to assess and adjust, but not much. If you're unsure of your supervisor's exact certification date or disciplinary status, start the verification process now.
For detailed guidance specific to your firm's structure and staffing, the New Hampshire Board of Real Estate Appraisers can clarify how the rule applies to your situation.
Source: HB1310, Section 1, amending RSA 310-B:6, I(a); effective 60 days after passage.