RICS is to launch its Valuer Registration Scheme on 20 October. This follows a year of consultation, development and testing.

The scheme is designed to assure the quality of valuations, raise the credibility of valuers and provide clients a clearly identifiable designation for the best regulated and qualified professionals in the field.

The RICS’ scheme, conceived by the Valuation Professional Group, sets out an approach to reinforce professional standards and raise consumer confidence in the delivery of valuation advice to the highest professional standard. More than 800 separate written responses were received in a 10-week consultation period last year and an approach was chosen which members deemed appropriate to achieve proportionate and better regulation in the market place.

The scheme will become mandatory in the UK from 30 April 2011. This will apply to all members undertaking valuations carried out under RICS Valuation Standards (the Red Book). Phased launches will follow in the rest of the world.

David Rushholme, RICS director of valuation, said: “The new scheme will increase quality