Skip to content
Independent and free · we never estimate the value of a specific address · rules checked against OSFI, the Bank Act, FCAC and assessors, Nov 1, 2026Who runs this site
Revalued.caYour home's value, and what it unlocksAsk Mitey
Low appraisal

How to challenge a low home appraisal

You can't appeal an appraisal like a tax assessment, but you can ask the lender to reconsider, in writing, with better comparable sales and corrections to any factual errors; ask for a second appraisal or a different lender; or restructure the plan (borrow less, use a HELOC, add cash). An Appraisal Institute of Canada complaint only reviews whether the appraiser followed professional standards: it can't change the value.

Facts checked How we check facts

First, read the report

Ask your lender for a copy. Check the property facts (size, bedrooms, bathrooms, basement finish, garage, lot), the comparable sales chosen and the adjustments. Most successful reconsiderations rest on a factual error or a missed, better comparable.

Ask the lender to reconsider

  1. Gather three to five sold (not listed) comparables: similar, nearby, recent. Our comparables check lines them up.
  2. List factual errors with proof (floor plan, permits, photos).
  3. Send it to your lender or broker, not the appraiser directly, and ask that it go to the appraiser for review.
  4. If that fails, ask whether another lender would order its own appraisal.

A letter you can adapt

Subject: Request for reconsideration of value, appraisal dated [date] I'm asking you to forward this to the appraiser for review. 1. Factual corrections: [e.g., finished basement of 850 sq ft not included; permit attached]. 2. Comparable sales not considered: [address area only, sale date, price, size, why comparable] × 3. 3. Adjustments I'd ask to be reviewed: [e.g., garage, renovated kitchen in 2025 with invoices]. I understand the appraiser's opinion is independent. I'd be grateful for a written response.

Restructure the plan

Example: you hoped for $800,000 to take out $150,000 with a $420,000 mortgage. A refinance needs at least $715,000; a HELOC needs $714,563. If the appraisal comes in at $752,000, a refinance gives $179,600 and a HELOC $179,950. Re-run your own plan at the appraised value in the equity calculator.

Complaints: what they can and can't do

  • AIC professional practice complaint (written, members only): reviews compliance with CUSPAP. It can't give an opinion on the value, award compensation, order a refund, or force a new report. Your identity is shared with the member, and the outcome can't be appealed by you.
  • Your bank: it must answer a complaint in writing within 56 days; then you can go to its external complaints body (often OBSI, free). The FCAC doesn't resolve individual complaints.

Frequently asked questions

Can I dispute a home appraisal in Canada?

There's no formal appeal. Ask the lender for a reconsideration with new comparables and factual corrections, or a second appraisal. The AIC handles complaints about professional standards but can't change a value, order a refund or make an appraiser redo a report.

What does CMHC say about a low appraisal?

CMHC's consumer page says that if your appraisal doesn't support the mortgage amount you want, talk to your lender and real estate agent, and that the AIC could help you or your lender during that process.

Primary sources

  1. Appraisal Institute of Canada — Addressing your concerns (professional practice complaints). Checked .
  2. CMHC — Your home value (appraisal shortfalls) (effective March 31, 2018). Checked .
  3. Financial Consumer Agency of Canada — File a complaint with a financial institution (56 days, OBSI) (effective September 16, 2026). Checked .
  4. OSFI — Guideline B-20: Residential mortgage underwriting (HELOC 65%, appraisals, AVMs) (effective October 31, 2017). Checked .
  5. Appraisal Institute of Canada — What appraisers do (AACI, CRA designations; three approaches). Checked .
Comparables checkBuild your evidence.Open →Equity calculatorRestructure at the lower value.Open →Refinancing gapsOther fixes.Open →