Capital Gains Tax
A Capital Gains Tax valuation is a formal RICS Red Book report of Market Value, used to establish the taxable gain when a property is sold, gifted or transferred — a figure HMRC accepts and your accountant can rely on.
"We empower you to make informed financial decisions, ensuring your property gains are valued accurately and transparently – so you can move forward with certainty."
- Richard Stacey MRICS, Director and RICS Registered valuer
What is a Capital Gains Tax property valuation?
A Capital Gains Tax (CGT) valuation is a RICS Red Book report of Market Value, used to establish the gain on a property when it is sold, gifted or transferred. Where there is no genuine open-market sale price, HMRC requires a valuation under Section 272 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 — the price the property would command on the open market at the relevant date.
We are a firm of Chartered Surveyors, and every CGT valuation is carried out by an RICS Registered Valuer. The figure in your report is one HMRC recognises and your accountant can rely on. We provide the property valuation; the tax calculation itself is for your accountant or tax adviser.
The valuations we most often prepare
Most CGT valuations are needed where a transfer is planned or has taken place without a normal sale price, or where a historic base value is required.
Present-day Market Value
For transfers that have not gone through at an arm's-length price — gifting a property, selling at an undervalue to benefit the buyer, or moving a property within a corporate or family ownership structure.
April 2015 rebasing
For non-UK residents disposing of residential property, where the gain is generally measured from the property's value in April 2015, or the later date of acquisition.
31 March 1982
For properties held since before April 1982, where the base cost is rebased to the 1982 value. A smaller part of our work, but one we are particularly well equipped to handle.
The evidence behind a 1982 valuation
Valuing to 31 March 1982 calls for reliable evidence of values from that date. We draw on a subscription database of historic transactions that most firms do not hold — so a 1982 figure is properly supported, not estimated.
See exactly what you will receive
A full sample Capital Gains Tax valuation report — the format, evidence and reasoning HMRC expects.
What date is my property valued at?
The valuation date depends on how the property left your ownership, and on residence. The most common trigger dates are:
How much Capital Gains Tax will I pay?
CGT is charged on the gain, not the sale or transfer value. You deduct the original cost (or the relevant base value) and allowable expenses, then apply your tax-free allowance.
Usually deductible
Acquisition and disposal costs — legal fees, stamp duty, agent's fees — and the cost of capital improvements such as an extension.
Not deductible
General upkeep and repairs, and mortgage interest (which can, however, offset rental income).
Our report establishes the Market Value; your accountant applies it to calculate the tax. We recommend confirming your liability with a suitably qualified tax adviser.
Do I pay CGT when I sell my main home?
In most cases, no. Selling the home you live in is normally covered by Private Residence Relief, so no CGT arises.
A liability can still occur if you have let the whole property, used part of it exclusively for business, developed it — for example converting it into flats — or sold off a large part of the garden. In those situations a professional valuation helps establish the correct figures.
Are your reports Red Book compliant?
Yes. Every valuation is prepared in accordance with the RICS Valuation – Global Standards — the framework known as the "Red Book".
It is the quality-assured standard for professional valuation, giving consistency, objectivity and transparency. You are looked after by an RICS-regulated firm whose Registered Valuers carry out tax valuations across London and the South East every week. Your report does not simply state a figure — it sets out how that figure was reached, with comparable evidence and detailed local knowledge.
How much does a CGT valuation cost?
Valuations start at £550 +VAT. The fee depends on the property and whether a current or retrospective date is required — and is always confirmed in writing before you commit.
Capital Gains Tax valuation FAQs
Are your CGT reports Red Book compliant?
Yes. Every report is prepared in accordance with the RICS Valuation – Global Standards (the "Red Book") by an RICS Registered Valuer, and is accepted by HMRC.
Is this the same as an estate agent's appraisal?
No. An agent's appraisal is a marketing estimate. A CGT valuation is a formal Red Book report of Market Value, prepared by a Registered Valuer and recognised by HMRC.
Can you value to a past date, such as April 2015 or 1982?
Yes. We regularly value as at April 2015 for non-UK residents, and as at 31 March 1982 for rebasing — the latter supported by a historic transaction database most firms do not hold.
Will I need to deal with HMRC directly?
We provide the valuation; your accountant or tax adviser submits the figures to HMRC. We are happy to liaise if a query arises about the valuation itself.
Which areas do you cover?
London and the surrounding counties, including Hertfordshire, Essex, Buckinghamshire, Surrey and parts of Berkshire.
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Last reviewed: June 2026