Desktop Valuation
A desktop valuation is a remote property valuation prepared without an internal inspection, using photographs, floor plans, comparable sales evidence and the valuer's local market knowledge to arrive at a reliable opinion of market value.
The ideal solution when time, cost or access constraints prevent a physical inspection. Suitable for straightforward, conventional properties where the client can supply detailed information about the property.
Desktop Valuation
Our Home Surveyor & Property Valuer Accreditation & Professional Membership
Our Desktop Valuations are carried out by qualified surveyors who belong to the professional bodies that set UK property standards. Every report is prepared to recognised guidance and is completely independent, so you can rely on the findings when you buy, sell or value a home.
What Is a Desktop Valuation?
A desktop valuation is a remote property appraisal prepared without the valuer visiting the property. Instead, it draws on information supplied by the client — such as photographs, floor plans and property details — combined with comparable sales evidence, Land Registry data and the valuer's professional knowledge of the local market. It is a faster, more cost-effective alternative to an in-person inspection valuation for suitable properties.
What It Covers
- Assessment of market value based on comparable sales evidence
- Analysis of Land Registry and property database records
- Review of photographs and floor plans supplied by the client
- Consideration of the property's location, size and accommodation
- Application of the valuer's local market knowledge and experience
- A written valuation report with the opinion of market value
- Recommendations and commentary on the local property market
What It Does Not Cover
- Physical inspection of the property's interior or exterior
- Verification of the property's condition or identification of defects
- Assessment of structural integrity or building defects
- Testing of services, installations or appliances
- Measurement of the property on site
Is a Desktop Valuation Right for You?
Desktop valuations work well for straightforward properties and specific circumstances, but are not suitable for every situation. Use the guide below to determine whether this service fits your needs.
Suitable For
- Straightforward properties where access is not possible
- Budget-conscious clients who need a valuation quickly
- Properties the client knows well and can provide detailed information about
- Supplementary valuation alongside other services
Not Suitable For
- Properties in poor or unknown condition
- Listed buildings or unusual construction
- Probate, tax or court purposes where HMRC or the court expects a full inspection
Not sure if a desktop valuation is right for you? Speak to a surveyor for free, no-obligation advice.
Why Choose Our Desktop Valuation Service
Our desktop valuations deliver reliable, professional opinions of market value without the need for a physical inspection.
No Physical Inspection Required
Faster and more affordable than a traditional in-person valuation. The entire process is completed remotely using the information you provide and our market data resources.
Based on Photographs, Floor Plans and Market Data
We combine the photographs and floor plans you supply with Land Registry data, comparable sales evidence and our own local market intelligence to arrive at a well-supported valuation.
Prepared by an RICS Registered Valuer
Every desktop valuation is prepared by a qualified RICS Registered Valuer with extensive experience in the local property market, not a computer-generated estimate.
Suitable for Straightforward, Conventional Properties
Ideal for standard houses, flats and bungalows of conventional construction where the client has good knowledge of the property and can supply current photographs and information.
Delivered Within 3–5 Working Days
Once we have all the required information from you, we aim to deliver your written desktop valuation report by email within 3–5 working days. Faster turnaround available on request.
How a Desktop Valuation Works
From enquiry to report — clear, remote and straightforward.
Get a Quote
Contact us with the property address and a brief description. We respond within 24 hours with a fixed-price quote. No hidden charges.
Provide Information
Send us current photographs of the interior and exterior of the property, a floor plan if available, and any relevant details about improvements or defects.
Valuer Researches
Our RICS Registered Valuer analyses the information you provided alongside Land Registry data, comparable sales and local market intelligence.
Receive Your Report
Your written desktop valuation report is delivered by email within 3–5 working days, with the valuer available to discuss the findings by phone.
Desktop Valuation Questions
Is a desktop valuation as reliable as an in-person valuation?
A desktop valuation relies on the information provided to the valuer and publicly available data, rather than a physical inspection. For straightforward, conventional properties in good condition, a desktop valuation can provide a reliable indication of market value at a lower cost. However, because the valuer does not inspect the property, they cannot verify its condition, identify defects or assess factors that would be apparent during a physical visit. For formal purposes such as probate, tax or court proceedings, an in-person inspection valuation is usually required.
What information do I need to provide for a desktop valuation?
To prepare a desktop valuation we typically need: the full property address, recent photographs of the interior and exterior (ideally taken within the last month), the approximate floor area or a floor plan if available, the number of bedrooms and reception rooms, any known defects or issues, and details of any recent improvements or extensions. The more information you can provide, the more reliable the valuation.
How long does a desktop valuation take?
Once we have received all the required information from you, we aim to deliver your written desktop valuation report by email within 3–5 working days. If you need it sooner, please let us know when you enquire and we will do our best to accommodate an express turnaround. The initial quote is provided within 24 hours of your enquiry.
Can a desktop valuation be used for tax or legal purposes?
Desktop valuations are generally not recommended for formal purposes such as probate, Capital Gains Tax, Inheritance Tax or court proceedings where HMRC or the court expects a full internal and external inspection of the property to have been carried out. For these purposes we recommend our RICS Red Book Valuation with a full inspection. If you are unsure which type of valuation you need for a tax or legal matter, please contact us and we will advise you.
How much does a desktop valuation cost?
Our desktop valuations are priced competitively and are more affordable than an in-person inspection valuation because there is no travel or on-site time. The exact price depends on the property type, location and complexity. We provide a fixed-price quote within 24 hours — the price we quote is the price you pay, with no hidden extras. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.
Do you cover my area for a desktop valuation?
Because a desktop valuation does not require a physical visit to the property, we can provide this service across our entire seven-county coverage area: Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Northamptonshire, Greater London and Oxfordshire. Our valuers have detailed local market knowledge across all these areas, which is essential for producing a reliable desktop valuation.
Get a Fixed-Price Desktop Valuation Quote
Free, no-obligation quote within 24 hours. Delivered by email within 3–5 working days.