Does the Assessor need to inspect my home?

The Department of Revenue requires the Assessor’s Office to maintain the database, updating properties when building permits are issued, properties are sold, businesses change, and the cyclical recollection of data which is an on-going process. The Department of Revenue mandates every property in Massachusetts be inspected at least once every ten (10) years. Our property inspections are on-going, and are systematically organized to conform to the 10 year visitation cycle. Letters to property owners are mailed requesting a phone call to our office to schedule an inspection. We make every attempt to provide a convenient appointment schedule for property owners. The inspection lasts approximately 5-10 minutes. An interior property inspection is an important factor in determining an equitable and accurate assessment for your property. You should expect to be hearing from us if it has been a while since your property was last inspected.

All Assessing staff carries a picture identification card.   Our telephone number is 781-293-5259 if you need verification of the ID and why they are at your property.  To ensure accurate assessments, it is to your advantage to allow the Assessors or their personnel inside your property when an inspection is required.  By denying an inspection, you may lose some rights if you feel the need to appeal your assessment.