When property becomes part of a legal matter — such as a divorce, deceased estate, or financial dispute — the valuation must be more than just an estimate. It must be accurate, defensible, and admissible in court. That’s where sworn property valuers come in.
A sworn valuer provides a formal, legally certified valuation backed by an affidavit or statutory declaration. Their report stands up to scrutiny from banks, the ATO, lawyers, and the Family or Supreme Court.
In this article, we explain who sworn property valuers are, how their work differs from standard valuers or agents, and when you need one to protect your legal or financial position.
What Is a Sworn Property Valuer?
A sworn property valuer is a certified professional who provides a formal valuation of a property for legal purposes — and is willing to swear, under oath or statutory declaration, to the accuracy of their report. This is especially important when the valuation:
- Is used in court proceedings
- Forms part of an affidavit
- Is included in a dispute resolution or legal settlement
- Is relied upon for probate or estate distribution
Sworn valuers must be accredited as Certified Practising Valuers (CPV) with the Australian Property Institute (API) or RICS-accredited, and often have specialist experience in family law, estate planning, or taxation.
When Do You Need a Sworn Property Valuer?
| Legal or Financial Scenario | Why a Sworn Valuer Is Required |
| Divorce or family law matters | Courts require unbiased, sworn valuation of assets |
| Deceased estates (probate) | Executors need a legally verified property value at date of death |
| Capital Gains Tax (CGT) | For retrospective valuations and ATO audits |
| Property disputes | In cases of contested ownership or partnership splits |
| Compulsory acquisition | Sworn valuations may be used to determine compensation |
| SMSF audit or compliance | For high-value or sensitive property holdings |
| Tax litigation or appeals | Sworn valuation supports evidence in disputes with the ATO |
Key Features of a Sworn Valuation
- Legally binding and often accompanied by a statutory declaration or sworn affidavit
- Includes detailed methodology, supporting evidence, and comparable sales
- Suitable for court lodgement and financial dispute resolution
- May involve follow-up court testimony or expert witness support if required
- Trusted by solicitors, accountants, the ATO, and judiciary panels
What Is Included in a Sworn Valuation Report?
- Full description of the property and its improvements
- Inspection notes, photographs, and land details
- Planning, zoning, and title information
- Valuation method used (e.g., direct comparison, summation)
- Analysis of relevant comparable sales or rental evidence
- Final assessed market value
- Signed statutory declaration or affidavit
- Credentials of the valuer
Common Valuation Methods Used
| Method | Used For |
| Direct Comparison | Residential homes, apartments, and land |
| Summation Method | Properties with extensive improvements or additions |
| Capitalisation of Income | Investment or rental properties |
| Retrospective Valuation | Required for CGT, estates, or backdated assessments |
How Much Do Sworn Property Valuers Cost?
| Valuation Type | Typical Fee (AUD) |
| Standard residential (sworn) | $600–$900 |
| Retrospective valuation | $800–$1,200 |
| Complex or multi-property estate | $1,200–$2,500+ |
| Court testimony (if required) | Quoted separately on hourly/day rate |
Sworn valuations are more comprehensive and legally accountable, so expect a slightly higher fee than standard valuations.
Choosing a Sworn Property Valuer in Australia
- API (CPV) or RICS accreditation
- Experience with legal, estate, or tax valuations
- Willing to provide a statutory declaration or affidavit
- Clear communication and fixed-fee quote
- Able to meet court deadlines and legal compliance requirements
Ask your solicitor or accountant to recommend a trusted professional with local expertise in your area.
Conclusion
A sworn property valuer delivers more than just a price tag — they provide certainty in high-stakes legal and financial matters. Whether you’re dividing assets, resolving a dispute, or lodging a valuation with the court or ATO, their expertise and legal standing ensure your report is not just accepted — but respected.
If accuracy and credibility are non-negotiable, engage a sworn property valuer you can trust.