A property inspection is an in-person visit where an appraiser physically examines your property—either from the exterior (drive-by) or interior (if you allow access). For property tax purposes, appraisal districts may conduct inspections to verify property characteristics, assess condition, or respond to protests.
Most residential assessments are done WITHOUT interior inspections—the district relies on exterior observations, permit records, and mass appraisal models. This is why condition issues inside your home often aren't reflected in your assessment until you prove them during a protest.
You can request an inspection if you believe your property's condition would support a lower value. Showing an appraiser your dated kitchen or needed repairs can be more effective than photos alone.
Inspections can work for or against you—understanding when to request one is strategic.
Request an inspection when:
• Your home's condition is worse than records show
• You have deferred maintenance photos can't capture
• Interior is dated while exterior looks fine
• Functional issues aren't visible from outside
• You want to correct errors in property records
Be cautious if:
• You've made unpermitted improvements
• Your home is nicer than records indicate
• Recent renovations haven't been assessed yet
• Inspection might reveal value-adding features
An inspection is a two-way street—they might find things that lower your value OR raise it.
Types of property inspections:
Exterior/drive-by inspection:
• Appraiser views from street or aerial imagery
• Notes visible characteristics (size, condition, features)
• Cannot see interior condition
• Used for most residential mass appraisal
Interior inspection:
• Appraiser enters the home
• Reviews actual condition, features, quality
• Must be scheduled and permitted by owner
• More accurate but rarely done routinely
When inspections happen:
• New construction completion
• Major permit activity
• Property owner request during protest
• Periodic review cycles
• Following significant value disputes
You can refuse to allow interior access—appraisers generally need permission to enter your home. However, refusing may mean the district assumes average or above-average condition. Exterior inspections from public areas don't require your permission.
Only if it reveals condition issues or errors that support a lower value. Inspections are fact-finding—they could result in lower OR higher assessments. Request one strategically when you're confident your property's condition supports a reduction.,How do I request a property inspection?,Contact your appraisal district and ask for an interior inspection
All