If you’re buying, selling or refinancing a home in Scotland, you may need a valuation report. This essential document outlines a property’s market value based on its condition, location and current market trends. But what exactly is included, and when might you need one?
Our guide breaks down what to expect from a property valuation report and how it differs from a Home Report.
What Is a Property Valuation Report?
A valuation report is a concise, expert-led assessment of what a property is worth in the current market. It’s typically prepared by a RICS-registered surveyor and used for a range of purposes, including:
- Private sales not being advertised on the open market
- Inheritance or estate planning
- Remortgaging or releasing equity
- Help to Buy or shared equity scheme valuations
Unlike a full Home Report, a valuation doesn’t include a detailed building survey or energy performance rating. Instead, it focuses solely on the property’s value and the reasoning behind it.
What Does the Surveyor Assess?
When preparing the report, the surveyor considers:
- The general condition of the property
- Recent sales of similar properties nearby
- The property’s location and local market activity
- Age, size and layout of the home
Surveyors follow the guidance set by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), ensuring the valuation is consistent and evidence-based.
When Might You Need a Standalone Valuation?
You may need a standalone valuation in situations where a full Home Report is not required. For example:
- You’re establishing the value of the property when settling an estate.
- You’re transferring ownership through a divorce settlement
- You’re accessing funds through a shared equity scheme
In these cases, lenders or solicitors will typically ask for an up-to-date valuation report, usually dated within the last three months.
For more details, visit our Property Valuation Report guide.
How Is It Different from a Home Report?
In Scotland, a Home Report is a legal requirement for most advertised property sales. It includes:
- A Single Survey
- An Energy Report (EPC)
- A Property Questionnaire completed by the seller
If you’re not marketing the property publicly, a full Home Report may not be required. However, it’s always worth double-checking with your solicitor or surveyor.
Read more about the differences in our Home Report Overview.
Why Choose a RICS-Registered Surveyor?
A RICS-qualified professional ensures your valuation is reliable, impartial, and recognised by legal and financial institutions. This adds credibility to your transaction and reduces the risk of disputes later in the process.
Home Report Company provides fast, flexible valuation appointments across Scotland.
Every report is prepared by a RICS-registered surveyor and delivered quickly and accurately.
Get a free quote today or call 01316080175 to book an appointment.
