If you’ve owned property in Massachusetts long enough, you’ve likely received that postcard or unexpected knock: someone from the Assessor’s Department wants to come inside. Many homeowners react with confusion or annoyance. Do I have to let them in? What if I don’t? Beat it, “Big Brother.”
Like most things in life, the answer isn’t concrete. Here’s what matters about why they visit, what they’re looking for, and the pros and cons of allowing access.
Every community in Massachusetts must maintain accurate property records and conduct periodic revaluations. Assessors need current information: square footage, room count, finished spaces, major updates, and general condition. These factors change over time, and accurate data ensures your valuation, therefore, your taxes, reflects reality. These values affect everyone: if you are paying fairly but another is trying to keep their base low, it affects everyone since the latter is being underbilled for the same services…