Can a property owner refuse entry to the field inspector?
Yes, you may refuse entry to your home. However, it is in your best interest to see that as much information as possible is gathered to help ensure an accurate assessment. If the field inspector cannot inspect the inside of a building, it is possible an excessive assessment may result. The law provides that a property shall be assessed at the highest possible value if the assessor or field inspector is denied entry.
The revaluation program should not be seen as an adversarial situation. Property owners have a vested interest in the outcome of the project and cooperation is vital to achieve an equitable revaluation. If one person's property is underassessed, all other property owners in the Township will pay higher taxes to make up for the discrepancy. Conversely, if property owners deny access to the field inspector, they could wind up being overassessed and pay more than their fair share of taxes.
What typically happens when the property owner denies the field inspector access to the property/home or does not call to schedule an interior inspection with a field inspector?
The field inspector must assume that the basement is fully finished as a living area, the interior has been completely remodeled, all available possible amenities have been added and all areas (attics, basements, and lofts) have been improved.
Punishment for all you uppity land "owners"