SMSF valuations your auditor files without questions.

SMSF financial statements report fund assets at market value. A supportable property value helps the trustee, accountant and auditor assess the fund's position and the transactions or reporting decisions that rely on that value.

Not automatically in every case. Trustees must value assets each year using objective and supportable data, while an external valuation may be expected when the property is material, complex, has changed significantly or the auditor cannot verify the evidence. Confirm with your auditor.

For annual fund reporting, the instruction is commonly market value at 30 June for the relevant financial year. Use the exact date requested by the fund accountant or auditor, especially if the report also supports a transaction or pension event.

The report provides objective market evidence and a documented valuation process for the asset. Trustees remain responsible for ensuring the fund's financial statements value assets at market value and for meeting the fund's broader compliance obligations.

The valuation is prepared and signed by a qualified property valuer using relevant market evidence. This separates the market opinion from the trustee and provides the auditor with an independent report to review.

The report is designed to provide the independent evidence auditors commonly request, including the date, property details, methodology and comparable sales. The auditor must still assess whether the evidence is sufficient for the fund and may request clarification.

A valuation can establish market value for a permitted transaction, but it does not make a prohibited acquisition or non-arm's-length arrangement compliant. Obtain specialist SMSF advice on the transaction before relying on the valuation.

Many standard residential properties can be valued by desktop assessment using reliable records and comparable sales. An inspection may be recommended for unusual, rural, commercial, heavily improved or poorly documented property, or if the auditor requires it.

Each property requires its own valuation analysis and report because the evidence, risks and market value are address-specific. Order each address separately and use the same required valuation date where the fund's reporting instruction is consistent.

Provide the property address, required date, ownership details and information about leases, renovations, development approvals or material changes. For non-residential or unusual assets, include documents that help the valuer understand the interest held by the fund.