When a relationship breaks down, separating finances can be one of the most difficult and emotionally charged aspects of divorce. Ensuring that any division of assets is fair and legally compliant is essential- and this is where an RICS valuation for matrimonial purposes plays a key role.
Led by Carl O’Brien, our team of experienced Chartered Surveyors provide professional, independent property valuations that support fair divorce settlements. Whether you’re working with solicitors or directly with your former partner, a formal valuation ensures transparency and objectivity at a time when emotions can run high.
What Is a Matrimonial Valuation?
A matrimonial valuation is an independent assessment of a property’s Market Value, typically instructed as part of divorce proceedings. It ensures that shared assets-whether the family home or properties held as investments-are valued accurately to enable solicitors to divide fairly between both parties.
Unlike estate agent appraisals, which are often speculative and may vary significantly, a RICS valuation adheres to strict professional standards, providing a clear, unbiased figure based on market evidence which is verified and analysed. This is particularly important if the case proceeds through court, where a credible valuation is essential.
Why Choose an RICS Registered Valuer?
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) sets globally recognised standards for surveying and valuations. Choosing an RICS Registered Valuer gives peace of mind that:
- The valuation will be compliant with the RICS Valuation – Global Standards (Red Book).
- It will be carried out by a qualified professional with the required expertise.
- The report will be independent, objective and court-compliant.
In matrimonial disputes, courts often require Red Book-compliant valuations due to their rigour and impartiality. At Bradley Hall, all of our valuers are RICS Registered and experienced in working with legal professionals and family courts.
What Does a Matrimonial Valuation Include?
Our matrimonial valuation reports typically include:
- A detailed inspection of the property
- Analysis of comparable sales evidence
- A reasoned and impartial market valuation as of the agreed valuation date
- Commentary on any relevant factors (e.g., shared ownership, development potential, rental income)
Both parties will then have a period of time to raise queries on the valuation, if required.
Depending on your needs, we can also provide retrospective valuations to determine the value of a property at a specific point in the past, which is sometimes required in financial negotiations or court proceedings.
How Does the Process Work?
The valuation process is straightforward:
- Instruction – We’re typically instructed by a solicitor, a single party, or on a joint basis by both.
- Inspection – A surveyor will inspect the property, noting condition, location, size and other key factors.
- Market Analysis – We use recent comparable evidence to determine a realistic market value.
- Report Issued – You’ll receive a formal valuation report suitable for legal use.
Where appropriate, we can also act as a Single Joint Expert (SJE) if instructed by both parties. This can reduce costs and speed up the process by providing a mutually accepted valuation.
Why Bradley Hall?
Bradley Hall has been providing trusted property advice for over 35 years. With a network of offices across the North and Midlands, we understand local markets and provide clear, professional reports that stand up to scrutiny.
Our clients benefit from:
- Fast turnaround times
- Competitive fees
- Experienced Chartered Surveyors
- Friendly, confidential service
We work closely with legal professionals to ensure our reports meet all requirements for matrimonial and court proceedings.
Need Help with a Matrimonial Valuation?
If you’re going through a divorce and need to understand the value of your property assets, contact the Valuations team today. We offer professional, independent RICS valuations to help you reach a fair financial settlement.
Contact our Valuations team here: https://www.bradleyhall.co.uk/end-to-end-services/valuation-advisory/
