In Malaysia’s regulated property valuation profession, the distinction between a Probationary Valuer and a Registered Valuer is fundamental. While both roles are involved in valuation work, they differ significantly in terms of responsibility, authority, professional standing, and regulatory expectations under the oversight of the Board of Valuers, Appraisers, Estate Agents and Property Managers (BOVAEP).

Understanding these differences is essential for valuation graduates, employers, and candidates preparing for the Test of Professional Competence (TPC).

Definition and Professional Status

A Probationary Valuer is an individual who has met the academic requirements recognised by BOVAEP and is undergoing supervised practical training in preparation for registration.

A Registered Valuer, on the other hand, has successfully completed the required training period and the TPC, and is formally registered with BOVAEP to practise valuation independently.

The distinction reflects a progression from supervised learning to independent professional responsibility.

Scope of Work and Responsibility

Probationary Valuers:

• Work under the supervision of a Registered Valuer
• Assist in property inspections, data collection, analysis, and report preparation
• Do not practise independently
• Do not assume full professional responsibility for valuation opinions

Registered Valuers:

• May undertake valuation assignments independently
• Are professionally responsible for valuation opinions issued
• Sign valuation reports and carry accountability for their contents
• Deal directly with clients and stakeholders

This difference in responsibility is one of the most important distinctions between the two roles.

Supervision and Professional Accountability

Probationary valuers operate within a structured supervision framework. Their work is reviewed and guided by a Registered Valuer, who ensures that valuation standards and professional practices are upheld.

Registered valuers, in contrast, are fully accountable for their work. Their valuation opinions carry professional and, in some cases, legal implications. As such, they are expected to demonstrate sound professional judgment, ethical conduct, and compliance with applicable standards and regulations.

Professional Judgment and Decision-Making

Probationary Valuers are still developing professional judgment. While they may contribute to valuation analysis, key decisions—such as valuation approach, assumptions, and final opinion of value—are made or validated by the supervising Registered Valuer.

Registered Valuers are expected to exercise independent professional judgment. They must justify their valuation decisions, manage uncertainties, and address ethical challenges without reliance on supervision.

This transition in decision-making responsibility is a core reason why the TPC exists.

Ethics, Conduct, and Regulatory Expectations

Both probationary and registered valuers are expected to uphold professional ethics and conduct. However, expectations increase significantly upon registration.

Probationary Valuers:

• Learn ethical principles through supervised practice
• Follow guidance from supervising valuers
• Are evaluated on ethical awareness and learning attitude

Registered Valuers:

• Are expected to demonstrate ethical leadership
• Manage conflicts of interest independently
• Uphold confidentiality and professional integrity at all times
• Are subject to full regulatory accountability

Ethical maturity is a key factor assessed during the TPC.

Career Development and Professional Growth

The probationary period is a developmental stage focused on learning and exposure. Candidates build technical skills, understand professional responsibilities, and prepare for independent practice.

Registration marks the beginning of long-term professional growth. Registered valuers may:

• Specialise in certain property sectors
• Take on senior or leadership roles
• Supervise probationary valuers
• Contribute to industry development and professional bodies

Continuous professional development remains important at both stages.

Transitioning from Probationary to Registered Valuer

The transition from probationary to registered valuer typically involves:

• Completion of supervised practical training
• Proper documentation of experience
• Demonstration of professional competence
• Successful completion of the TPC

This transition reflects readiness to assume greater responsibility and professional accountability.

Conclusion

The difference between Probationary Valuers and Registered Valuers in Malaysia lies not only in title, but in professional responsibility, independence, and accountability.

Understanding these distinctions helps probationary valuers prepare for the expectations of registration and supports a smoother professional transition within Malaysia’s property valuation profession.