Valuable Knowledge

Understanding the value of treasured possessions in our is fundamental, not just when selling, but for a multitude of other reasons. George Banns spoke to Rachel Doerr, Managing Director of Doerr Dallas Valuations, to find out why

How did Doerr Dallas Valuations begin?

I founded Doerr Valuations in 2016 when I took the decision to start my own company after 25 years’ experience working at the top tier of the valuations market. My vision for the company was to fill a clear gap in the valuations market, to provide clients with fully independent, bespoke valuations with no conflict of interest.

In 2019 renowned art advisor David Dallas joined the company, and Doerr Dallas Valuations was born. Dave brings with him a veritable wealth of art knowledge and industry connections developed over 40 years working at the highest echelons of the Old Master dealing world. His experience compliments and adds to our existing core values.

Why is it important to get updated valuations on valuables in the home from an expert?

The main reason for carrying out a valuation is to ensure an accurate understanding of the value of assets, enabling correct and accurate insurance against loss, damage or theft. If values are incorrect an insurer may well refuse to pay out on a claim or at best, apply average.  So, ensuring you understand the value of your contents and valuables is so important.

We always recommend a valuation / revaluation at least every 2 years for Art and Jewellery and every year for Collectable Watches and every 3 years on general contents. It’s entirely in their best interest to do so, this is a message that Doerr Dallas Valuations works hard to get across.

Tell us more about the team

Our team is made up of highly experienced, industry recognised specialist experts who have incredible in-depth knowledge within their specialist areas. As a company, we provide valuations across all sectors of the market – jewellery, watches, fine art, antiques, wine, cars etc. – therefore, it is essential that we have a substantial team of specialists to call upon when required. There is not an area of the collectables market that we cannot cover.

Where do you start when conducting a valuation for a new client?

Each job is bespoke and should be tailored to client’s needs. Communication is key and we discuss the client’s collection and needs prior to quoting on the job. We carry out pre-assessment visits to the property to ensure that the correct specialists are sent to the correct job.

Prior to the visit, each client is sent a fully comprehensive, transparent job quote for their approval. This quote outlines exactly which type of specialist is required for the job and how many hours on site they will need, as well as any additional research time. There are no hidden fees of costs to our service, as is often the case with other companies. The figure quoted and agreed upon at the beginning, and during our ongoing discussions, is the figure the client pays.

www.doerrvaluations.co.uk