An independent RICS valuation is a formal opinion of a property's market value by a RICS Registered Valuer. Unlike your lender's mortgage valuation, it is prepared for you, so you can rely on it to check a purchase price or for legal, tax or family purposes.
When you need one
- Checking a purchase price before you commit, especially in a fast-moving market
- Shared ownership staircasing and some help to buy redemptions
- Probate and inheritance tax where HMRC needs a market value at the date of death
- Separation and divorce where both parties need an agreed figure
- Transfers of equity between family members
- Capital gains tax and other tax matters
Valuation vs survey
A valuation tells you what the property is worth. It does not tell you about its condition in any detail. If you are buying, most people combine the two by booking a Level 2 Home Survey with valuation, or book a Level 3 Building Survey for older homes. See also mortgage valuation vs survey.
What you get
A written report from a RICS Registered Valuer that meets the RICS Valuation - Global Standards (the Red Book), stating the market value, the basis of valuation and any assumptions made. Tell us the purpose when we call so the surveyor prepares the right type of report.
RICS Valuation prices
The price depends on the value of the property. Find your band below, or enter the value in the form to see your exact price.
| Property value | valuation only |
|---|---|
| Up to £100k | £295 |
| £100k - £150k | £310 |
| £150k - £200k | £325 |
| £200k - £250k | £345 |
| £250k - £300k | £375 |
| £300k - £400k | £395 |
| £400k - £500k | £450 |
| £500k - £750k | £525 |
| £750k - £1m | £625 |
| £1m - £1.5m | £795 |
| Over £1.5m | On request |
Fixed prices including VAT. Some large or unusual properties may be priced individually - we confirm your price before you pay.
Frequently asked questions
Is my lender's valuation the same thing?
No. A mortgage valuation is for the lender's benefit and is often brief or desktop-based. An independent RICS valuation is prepared for you.
How long does a valuation take?
The inspection is usually under an hour for a typical home, with the report a few working days later.
Can I get a valuation for probate?
Yes. Tell us it's for probate and we'll book a RICS Registered Valuer who will value the property at the date of death.
Do I need to be there?
Not usually for a sale purchase, where the estate agent provides access. For probate or family valuations, someone with keys needs to let the surveyor in.
Related guides
Level 2 vs Level 3 survey: which do you need?
Level 2 or Level 3 survey? How the two RICS surveys differ in depth, price and report, and which one suits the home you're buying.
Costs and processHow much does a house survey cost in the UK?
Typical UK house survey prices for Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 surveys, what pushes the cost up or down, and how to avoid paying for the wrong survey.
Costs and processWhen should you book a house survey?
Book your house survey as soon as your offer is accepted. Here is why timing matters, how it fits with your mortgage and solicitor, and what delays it.