
What is a “Red Book Valuation”?

Banks, agents, solicitors and accountants will be familiar with red book valuations, but often their clients are not. We thought it would helpful to give an explanation.
Formal valuation reports are always needed for bank security valuations, divorce and litigation and are very often required for capital gains tax, inheritance tax and probate.
These formal valuations are carried out by Registered Valuers who are professional members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). The valuations have to comply with the RICS Valuation Global Standards 2017. Historically these were produced in a large red ring binder known as the “Red Book”. The name has stuck ever since, even though the current standards have not got much red on at all!
A “Red Book” valuation is designed to ensure that high standards of inspection, investigation, analysis, definitions, justification and presentation are met. The end product should therefore be a well considered and robust document that the intended parties can rely upon.
The process of undertaking a red book valuation involves the following:
Confirming instructions and valuation requirements, including caveats, reservations and assumptions with a Terms of Engagement letter. This needs to be signed and included within the valuation report.Ensuring there is no conflict of interestInspection of the propertyFurther research into matters that might affect the property e.g. planning, land designations, contamination, title & tenure, rights of way etc.Gathering, analysing and recording comparablesUndertaking valuation calculationsPulling everything together into a concise report.
The “added value” that Butler Sherborn provides over and above the production of the report is making the time to understand the clients wider situation and valuation requirements as the need for a valuation is usually a part of a wider matter that is important to understand. This often involves working with the clients legal and tax advisors to ensure the best outcome.
If you have any queries or if we can be of any assistance, please contact the Rural Valuation Team on 01285 883740.

Rural Sales - Market Comment
The national farmland market in 2024 was the busiest it's been for some years. It was influenced by a General Election, anticipation of CGT changes in the Autumn statement, and, following that, the unexpected proposed changes to Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief.
Rural Sales - Market Comment
Recent Success Stories
Our ethos centres around unwavering loyalty to each client and a steadfast commitment to the work we undertake.Our positive testimonials from our clients reflect this commitment perfectly. Here are some notable highlights, recently:
Recent Success Stories
Popular Cotswold Walks - Our Recommendations
The Cotswolds are extremely fortunate to offer some of the most beautiful walks and scenic views across the rolling hills. It’s the perfect time of year to recover from a busy, overindulging festive period and seek some fresh air and rural tranquility.
Popular Cotswold Walks
Property Of The Month - Morely House, Market Square, Lechlade
Our property of the month this month is a breathtaking fusion of history and architectural evolution. It originally dates back to the 14th century, with exquisite later additions from the Tudor and Queen Anne eras.
Property Of The Month