RICS Probate Valuations

Handling a probate estate that includes a property can be challenging, particularly when the legal and financial responsibilities fall on an executor. A key part of the process is establishing an accurate value for the property at the date of death. This value informs inheritance tax calculations, estate distribution, and the information reported to HM Revenue & Customs.

At David Cosby, our Chartered Surveyors provide formal RICS Red Book probate valuations for executors, beneficiaries and probate solicitors across Northamptonshire. Our experience in surveying, property law and estate agency practice means we can offer clear, reliable guidance at each stage.

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTATION

Handling a probate estate that includes a property can be challenging, particularly when the legal and financial responsibilities fall on an executor. A key part of the process is establishing an accurate value for the property at the date of death. This value informs inheritance tax calculations, estate distribution, and the information reported to HM Revenue & Customs.

At David Cosby, our Chartered Surveyors provide formal RICS Red Book probate valuations for executors, beneficiaries and probate solicitors across Northamptonshire. Our experience in surveying, property law and estate agency practice means we can offer clear, reliable guidance at each stage.

Established 2003

David Cosby Chartered Surveyors have been providing professional property valuation and surveying services for over two decades. Our experience includes delivering accurate probate valuations for executors, beneficiaries and solicitors across Northamptonshire.

What Is a Probate Valuation?

A probate valuation is an independent assessment of a property’s open market value at the date of death. This value must be reported as part of the probate application and may also be used to establish inheritance tax liability and ensure fair distribution of assets.

In some straightforward cases, a basic estate agent appraisal may suffice. However, where accuracy is essential, the estate is of higher value, or the property is unusual or complex, a formal RICS Red Book valuation provides a more robust and defensible assessment.

Blue and purple hydrangeas growing beside a cottage window with open shutters.

What Is a Probate Valuation?

A probate valuation is an independent assessment of a property’s open market value at the date of death. This value must be reported as part of the probate application and may also be used to establish inheritance tax liability and ensure fair distribution of assets.

In some straightforward cases, a basic estate agent appraisal may suffice. However, where accuracy is essential, the estate is of higher value, or the property is unusual or complex, a formal RICS Red Book valuation provides a more robust and defensible assessment.

Regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

Our probate valuations are carried out by Chartered Surveyors who follow the strict professional standards and ethical requirements set by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), ensuring accuracy, independence and full compliance for probate and inheritance tax purposes.

Flowering cottage garden with a stone wall, colourful plants and a white house with climbing vines.

When Is a RICS Red Book Probate Valuation Needed?

A formal valuation prepared by a Chartered Surveyor is advisable in many situations, including:

Higher-value estates where inheritance tax may be payable.
Approaching the IHT threshold where accuracy is critical.
Unusual, older or complex properties, including those with extensive grounds or Listed status.
Properties with condition issues, deferred maintenance or structural concerns.
Where beneficiaries disagree about value and an impartial opinion is required.
If HMRC may seek clarification, or where a defensible valuation is important for executor protection.

A Red Book valuation is prepared in accordance with strict RICS standards and carries the professional reliability expected by HMRC and legal representatives.

When Is a RICS Red Book Probate Valuation Needed?

A formal valuation prepared by a Chartered Surveyor is advisable in many situations, including:

Higher-value estates where inheritance tax may be payable.
Approaching the IHT threshold where accuracy is critical.
Unusual, older or complex properties, including those with extensive grounds or Listed status.
Properties with condition issues, deferred maintenance or structural concerns.
Where beneficiaries disagree about value and an impartial opinion is required.
If HMRC may seek clarification, or where a defensible valuation is important for executor protection.

A Red Book valuation is prepared in accordance with strict RICS standards and carries the professional reliability expected by HMRC and legal representatives.

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTATION

Why Executors and Solicitors Choose David Cosby

We offer a combination of expertise, local knowledge, and professionalism:

Chartered Surveyor-led valuations compliant with RICS standards.
Property law knowledge within the firm, ensuring informed, practical guidance.
Estate agency experience, offering a rounded understanding of the market.
Over 20 years of local knowledge across Northamptonshire.
A calm, personal and discreet approach, respecting the sensitivities of probate matters.

Our clients value the reassurance of dealing with a family-run firm where the focus is on accuracy, clarity and professional integrity.

Stone cottage with white-framed windows, surrounded by red and orange autumn leaves and a gravel driveway.

Why Executors and Solicitors Choose David Cosby

We offer a combination of expertise, local knowledge, and professionalism:

Chartered Surveyor-led valuations compliant with RICS standards.
Property law knowledge within the firm, ensuring informed, practical guidance.
Estate agency experience, offering a rounded understanding of the market.
Over 20 years of local knowledge across Northamptonshire.
A calm, personal and discreet approach, respecting the sensitivities of probate matters.