Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does it work?

You upload detailed photographs and what you know about the piece through our easy-to-use online form. The information is then sent through to one of our relevant specialists who will examine and research the object.

You will get an email within two working days once the valuation is complete with your PDF valuation document attached.

What do I need to include in my object description?

Please be as detailed as possible. Each category has its own form that will prompt you for the relevant details.

Upload good, clear photographs that should include the object in entirety, as well as any showing marks, stamps or signatures if available.

Read our blog piece 14 tips for taking the best photographs of your stuff with a smartphone for some helpful tips on how to take great photographs of objects.

In addition to uploading photographs, there is also an optional section where you can upload PDF documents, such as past sales receipts or reports for example if you have any.

Also, please include any provenance (the history that you might know of the piece), the medium, the condition or known repairs and reference to any marks, dates or signatures.

As much information as you know is welcomed to get the most accurate appraisal possible.

What do I get?

Once our relevant expert has appraised your item you will be sent an email containing a downloadable PDF document, which you may keep for your records or share how you choose.

The PDF will encompass your detailed valuation report, which in turn will contain relevant information about the item, a fair market value and an insurance replacement value.

What is the difference between a fair market value and an insurance value?

A fair market value (FMV) is what you could expect to sell your item for in the public domain. It tends to be slightly higher than an auction price but less than a shop or gallery price, and is based on the 'willing seller, willing buyer' model.

An insurance value (IV) tends to be higher than an FMV value and is more closely related to shop or gallery prices. It reflects the value if one had to immediately replace the item should something happen to it, such as it been stolen or damaged beyond repair.

Read our blog piece the 3 different types of value in art, antiques & collectibles for more information.

How much does a valuation cost?

We have sliding fee rate depending on how many items you need valued. A single item has a fixed cost and thereafter decreases according to amount of items valued. Our pricing structure can be viewed here.

How does buying valuations in batches work?

In addition to purchasing a single valuation we also offer a system of allowing you to buy valuations in batches. This affords you a discounted rate, meaning the more valuations you buy the less you pay for an individual valuation.

After purchasing a valuation pack on the pricing page you will then be immediately emailed a code with which you can redeem your valuations at your convenience. You can then click the Start Valuation tab and choose the type of item you want valued - Art, Object or Book. The system will then ask you to enter your code. You can then continue to upload the details of your item.

This same code will be used for each of the individual items that you have chosen to have valued.

Do pre-purchased valuations expire?

No, there is no expiry date to these, they may be redeemed at any time you wish.

Do you value large collections or offer special rates for such?

Yes we certainly do, on both counts! We offer a special tailored service for large collections of over 50 items.

This is of particular interest to insurance companies, museums, galleries, etc.

What kind of items do we value?

We value almost all objects that fall into the art, antiques and collector’s fields.

For more information see our categories page.

How many objects can I submit for each valuation?

Each valuation is for a single object only, such as a painting or clock. However, sets of objects are considered a single object such as tea sets, sets of dining chairs or flatware services.

Will my insurance company accept your appraisal?

Yes, most insurance companies will accept iValuations' appraisals for their policies.

If your particular insurance company requires a certified valuation please get in touch and one of our specialists would be happy to assist for a separate fee.

What qualifications do your specialists have?

We use specialists that have decades of experience in their chosen fields in addition to any academic qualifications.

All of our specialists are vetted industry professionals that have relevant experience or currently work in an auction house or private appraisals practice

Do you buy in any items?

No, we do not as we are in the business of valuing only.

However, while we don’t get involved with the buying or selling of any items, we would be happy to point you in the right direction should you wish to sell.

Over the years we have built up a comprehensive network of buyers, auction houses and collectors and can advise who might be best to approach should you be thinking of disposing your item.

We can also advise on the best restorers and conservators to use should your item be in need of some attention.

How can I get in touch with iValuations?

Visit our contact page and send us an email. We’d love to hear any additional questions that you might have!