When appointing a business valuer, when was the last time you checked their accreditation before making the decision?
In practice, many appointments come down to availability, familiarity, or price. But when a valuation is supporting a significant outcome - whether in a transaction, dispute, or strategic decision - the better question is whether those factors are enough. Because not all valuations deliver the same level of quality, rigour, or credibility.
More than just a number
A valuation is not simply an output or calculation. It is a professional opinion built on three core elements:
- the quality and reliability of the underlying information
- the appropriateness of the methodology applied
- and the experience and judgement of the valuer.
That last point is critical. Judgement is shaped by training, standards, and professional accountability, none of which should be assumed.
Why accreditation matters
In Australia, there is currently no requirement for a business valuer to be licensed or formally accredited. That makes it even more important to ask the question upfront, before appointing a valuation professional.
Accreditation reflects adherence to recognised standards and ongoing professional development. It also provides greater confidence that a valuation will withstand scrutiny if challenged. When combined with experience, interpretation and judgement being exercised, assumptions become more robust, and methodology is consistently applied, the result is a credible valuation conclusion.
A better way to appoint a valuer
While fee is often a deciding factor, the lowest quote does not always represent the best value. If the valuation is later tested - by another party, an auditor, or in a dispute - those gaps become far more significant.
A more considered approach focuses on outcomes, not just process. When appointing a valuer, it is worth asking:
- Will the valuation be the result of the valuer exercising interpretation and judgement that has been arrived at through experience and formally assessed international accreditations?
- Does the valuer have a process that will result in a valuation that is clear, supportable and credible?
- Can the valuer demonstrate a process to ensure the valuation is prepared using an appropriate methodology for the engagement?
- Will the valuer’s report assess and adopt valuation approaches and valuation methodologies that are appropriate and relevant, and lead to a conclusion that can be understood and examined, and where necessary defended?
The objective is not simply to obtain a valuation, it is to secure a credible, high-quality outcome.
Our perspective
At Azimuth Partners, we see accreditation as a key element to quality business valuations. We are fortunate to have two internationally accredited Business Valuers within the Azimuth team, David Young and Tania Fitzgerald, who are both proud members of Business Valuation Institute UK.
That international accreditation reflects both a disciplined, standards-based framework and a commitment to continuous development, strengthening consistency, transparency, and confidence in our work.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to discuss your business goals and to gain a tailored approach to your specific needs.
Source: The case for accreditation in business valuation by Magdalena Zwadzka
