Property Valuations

Property Valuations – Desktop v Full Valuation

Which valuation is right for you?

Property owners are often unsure whether they need a quick estimate or a full inspection. To help you make an informed choice, here’s a brief guide to both types of property valuations.

Desktop Valuation (fast, cost-effective estimate)

A desktop valuation is a professional valuation carried out without a physical inspection. Instead, the valuer relies on available data such as online resources, previous sales records, and market trends —to provide an informed estimate of your property’s value.

When a desktop valuation works well

Ideal for:

• Mortgage or refinancing checks
• Early-stage sale decisions
• Portfolio reviews
• Situations where speed and affordability are priorities
• Interim updates between full valuations

Pros

• Speed: Completed quickly with no site visit needed.
• Cost-Effective: Typically, around £350+VAT, about a third of the cost of a full valuation.
• Convenient: No disruption to occupiers or access requirements.

Cons

• Less Accuracy: Without a physical inspection, you cannot see the property’s condition, unique features, or potential issues.
• Limited Detail: More to provide a general overview as specific factors could be missed affecting the property’s value.
• Data Reliance: Incomplete or outdated information increase the risk of errors.

A desktop property valuation is a great starting point—but for accuracy, legal use, or high-value assets, a full valuation is strongly advised.

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Full RICS Valuation Report (the most accurate & legally reliable option)

A full RICS valuation includes a comprehensive property inspection carried out by a RICS-qualified Chartered Surveyor, detailed market analysis, and a full written report. This is the industry-standard valuation for legal, financial and high-value transactions.

When full property valuations are essential

Recommended for:

• High-value property sales
• Lease extension & enfranchisement
• Tax calculations
• Insurance reinstatement
• Dispute resolution
• When accuracy and reliability are critical
• Probate and inheritance tax
• Matrimonial / divorce proceedings

Pros

• Highest Accuracy: Full valuations provide a more precise and reliable assessment of the property’s value due to the thorough inspection and detailed analysis.
• Comprehensive Detail: Covers all aspects of the property including structural issues, local market factors, comparable sales and specific property characteristics.
• Widely Accepted: Trusted by lenders, solicitors, courts and professional bodies.
• Chartered Expertise: Always completed by a RICS-regulated surveyor for full confidence.

Cons

• Higher Cost: Typically, around £900+VAT, depending on property size and complexity.
• Time-consuming: The process takes longer as it requires scheduling an inspection, conducting a thorough review, and compiling the report.
• Access Required: May be less convenient if the property is occupied or difficult to access.

How often should you update a full valuation?

RICS guidance recommends a full valuation initially, then updated every 2–4 years depending on the property.

Desktop valuations are ideal interim updates between full assessments.

Property valuations comparison at a glance

Feature	Desktop Valuation	Full RICS Valuation
Physical inspection	❌ No	✅ Yes
Accuracy	Medium	High
Suitable for legal use	Sometimes	Always
Cost	From £350 + VAT	From £900 + VAT
Turnaround	Fast	Longer
Best for	Quick estimates, refinancing checks, portfolio updatesProbate, tax, divorce, lease extension, high-value transactions	Probate, tax, divorce, lease extension, high-value transactions

Why accurate property valuations matter

Property values can change quickly. It is important to note that any valuation is only truly accurate at the time it is carried out, and you may be liable for shortfalls if a valuation is found to be incorrect during a claim or dispute.

A full RICS valuation is the strongest protection against unexpected issues—and provides confidence during any major transaction.

Get advice or request a quote

Our surveying department is experienced in residential, leasehold, freehold and commercial property valuations, and work closely with chartered surveyors, solicitors, lenders, estate agents and property owners.

We can offer professional guidance and help you choose the right valuation if you are unsure which is right for you, and will recommend the best option.

Speak to a member of our team, use our contact form or call us today on 01323 89894400