Probate Antique Valuation

Antiques encompass an enormous range of objects — from Georgian mahogany furniture and Victorian silverware to Edwardian ceramics, longcase clocks, and Persian rugs. Each category has its own market dynamics, specialist buyers, and factors that drive value. A probate antique valuation requires broad knowledge across these categories combined with the ability to identify the specific features that distinguish a valuable piece from a commonplace one.

The antiques market has shifted considerably in recent decades. Mid-century modern furniture has risen sharply in value, while much traditional brown furniture has fallen. Chinese ceramics have seen dramatic price increases driven by demand from collectors in mainland China, while once-prized categories such as Victorian landscape paintings have softened. A probate valuation must reflect these current market realities rather than relying on historical expectations of value.

Our valuers are experienced generalists and category specialists who conduct regular research into current auction prices. They hold RICS, SOFAA, or equivalent qualifications and understand the specific requirements of HMRC-compliant probate reporting.

Executors are often surprised by the values — or lack of value — in an antique collection. A house full of antique furniture may appear valuable but could be worth relatively little at current auction prices, while a single overlooked item such as a Chinese jade carving or a piece of early English silver might be worth thousands. Without professional assessment, the estate return is likely to be inaccurate in one direction or the other.

Antiques are also one of the most common categories where family attributions prove incorrect. A dining table described as "Georgian" may in fact be a Victorian reproduction; a set of hallmarked silver may include later replacements that reduce the value of the set. Professional valuers are trained to identify period, style, and authenticity through construction methods, marks, and materials.

For larger estates containing numerous antiques, a home visit allows the valuer to assess everything in context, often identifying items the executor had not considered significant. This thoroughness protects against HMRC enquiries and ensures nothing is overlooked.

HMRC requires professional valuation for any single antique item worth over £1,500. For household contents that include antiques alongside everyday items, HMRC expects a clear distinction between items of significant value (which must be individually listed and valued) and general household effects (which may be grouped together with a collective estimate).

Where antiques form part of a larger collection — for example, a complete set of dining chairs or a cabinet of ceramics — the valuer must assess whether the collection has greater value as a whole than the sum of its individual pieces. HMRC may query valuations that appear to artificially separate items that would normally be sold together.

Antique valuations typically begin with a home visit, during which the valuer inspects every room and outbuilding. Each item of potential value is examined for period, maker, condition, and authenticity. Furniture is assessed for construction methods, timber, and quality of craftsmanship. Silver is checked for hallmarks, weight, and condition. Ceramics are examined for marks, glaze, and any damage or restoration.

The valuer photographs each significant item and researches comparable auction results from recent sales at houses such as Bonhams, Christie's, Dreweatts, and regional salerooms. For specialist categories — clocks, Oriental ceramics, scientific instruments — the valuer may consult category-specific databases or recommend input from a subject specialist.

The completed report lists each item individually with a full description, photograph, and Open Market Value at the date of death. General household contents of modest value are grouped separately. The report is structured for direct submission to HMRC as part of the IHT400 or IHT205 return.

A typical probate antiques valuation costs £100–£300 per visit. Fees vary depending on the complexity of the item, the level of research required, and whether a home visit is needed. Discounts are often available when multiple items are assessed in a single appointment.

Probate valuation fees are a legitimate estate expense and can be deducted before calculating Inheritance Tax. The estate, not the executor personally, bears the cost.