I’d like to let you know about an important change to valuations, as well as what we’re doing to support you and your mortgage clients during this challenging time.

Physical valuations

Following Government instruction in March, all physical mortgage valuations were put on hold.

Now with updated Government guidance, we’re able to resume physical mortgage valuations for properties where social distancing can be maintained. Physical mortgage valuations in England can now be booked for residential properties which meet the safety requirements. Please note we’ll be able to offer physical valuations for buy to let properties in the next few days and we’ll be back in touch about this.

The safety of surveyors and occupants must be maintained at all times and there are clear guidelines on how to carry out safe valuations. If these safety standards are not met, the valuation will be stopped and cancelled. Customers will not be refunded if the valuer has started their inspection.

Valuation booking process:
• Upon our surveyors making contact, a series of questions and checks will be undertaken during the booking process to ensure the property and occupants are suitable
• If any occupant is unwell, shielding, vulnerable or not happy to adhere to social distancing requirements the valuation will not be booked
Surveyor requirements:
Upon arrival, the surveyor will need to complete a number of checks to ensure social distancing can be maintained before they go ahead with the valuation.

The occupiers will be asked to:
• Open all internal doors pre inspection
• Maximise property ventilation during inspection
• Control or remove pets
• Adhere to a mutual 2 metres social distancing

Unacceptable properties:
• Physical mortgage valuations are still not currently possible in Scotland and Wales due to social distancing restrictions
• Properties where the occupants refuse to adhere to social distancing requirements
For more information on these mortgage valuation changes, please click here