What is a probate valuation?

What Is a Probate Valuation? – A Guide by WBC Valuations Ltd

Dealing with the death of a loved one is never easy. Alongside the emotional toll, there are often legal and financial responsibilities to manage — one of which is understanding the value of the deceased’s estate. That’s where a probate valuation comes in.

At WBC Valuations Ltd, we specialise in probate valuations across Cheltenham, Hereford, Shrewsbury, Tewkesbury, Gloucester, and Kidderminster, helping executors and families navigate this essential legal process with clarity and compassion.

What Is a Probate Valuation?

A probate valuation is the formal assessment of a deceased person’s assets — most notably their property — for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes. It is a crucial step in applying for probate, which grants the legal right to administer the estate.

This valuation must be accurate, professional, and HMRC-compliant. The value provided will determine whether Inheritance Tax is due and how much needs to be paid.

Why Do You Need a Probate Valuation?

When applying for probate in the UK, HMRC requires a formal valuation of any property owned by the deceased. This includes:

• Residential homes

• Land and outbuildings

• Buy-to-let or investment properties

• Commercial or mixed-use properties

An informal estate agent estimate is not acceptable for probate purposes. HMRC may reject inaccurate or inflated figures, potentially leading to delays or penalties.

Valuing a deceased estate is an important part of the Probate process.

Why Choose a RICS-Accredited Valuer for Probate?

At WBC Valuations Ltd, all our valuations are completed in accordance with RICS Red Book standards, ensuring:

✅ A professional, independent assessment✅ Compliance with HMRC requirements✅ A clear, written valuation report✅ Peace of mind during a difficult time

We work sensitively and efficiently with executors, solicitors, and estate administrators across Cheltenham, Hereford, Gloucester, Shrewsbury, Tewkesbury, and Kidderminster.

What’s Included in a Probate Valuation?

• A physical inspection of the property (where accessible)

• Market-based analysis using comparable sales data

• Valuation as of the date of death (required by HMRC)

• RICS-compliant written report

• Support with follow-up queries from HMRC or solicitors

Whether it’s a countryside home near Hereford, a period property in Cheltenham, or a city residence in Gloucester, our team has the local knowledge and professional experience to deliver accurate, fair valuations.

When Should You Get a Probate Valuation?

It’s best to obtain the valuation as soon as possible after the date of death, especially if the estate is likely to exceed the Inheritance Tax threshold (£325,000 at time of writing).

Even if no tax is due, a probate valuation is still legally required to complete the probate process.

Valuations for probate should ne carried out as soon as practicable.

Local Expertise in Probate Valuations

At WBC Valuations Ltd, we regularly carry out probate valuations in:

📍 Cheltenham – for large family homes and period properties📍 Hereford – for rural estates and agricultural holdings📍 Shrewsbury – for heritage buildings and traditional homes📍 Tewkesbury – for mixed-use and residential properties📍 Gloucester – for city centre and suburban houses📍 Kidderminster – for investment and retirement properties

We work with sensitivity, professionalism, and full RICS compliance to ensure every probate valuation is handled with care and precision.

Need a Probate Valuation? Contact WBC Valuations Ltd

If you require a probate property valuation in Cheltenham, Hereford, Shrewsbury, Tewkesbury, Gloucester or Kidderminster, we’re here to help. Our experienced RICS-registered valuers will guide you through the process, delivering a compliant, efficient service tailored to your needs.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a probate valuation or speak to one of our professional surveyors.