CAHP was founded in 1987 to represent the interests of professional practitioners in many related fields of heritage conservation. The organization maintains the following objectives:

• to represent and further the professional interests of heritage consultants active in both public and private sectors;
  
  
• to establish and maintain principles and standards of practice for heritage consultants;
  
  
• to enhance awareness and appreciation of heritage resources and the contribution of heritage consultants; and,
  
  
• to foster communication among private practitioners, public agencies, and the public at large in matters related to heritage conservation.