The Assessing Department for the City of Rochester is continuing a five-year cyclical property inspection program to review and update property information throughout the City. The program will help ensure that property records remain accurate and up to date, supporting a fair and equitable assessment process.
The purpose of the cyclical inspection program is to confirm that the Assessing Department has up-to-date information regarding the physical improvements, inventory, and condition of all residential and commercial property in the City of Rochester. Correct inventory and measurements are extremely important in the assessing process and result in data accuracy and equity.
The Assessing Department has created an in-house cyclical work plan that will span a five (5) year period. Currently, the City of Rochester has approximately 14,500 parcels. Under this plan, staff will attempt to measure and list approximately 2,900 parcels per year, inclusive of sales and permit-related inspections.
Why Are These Inspections Being Conducted?
The goal of the visit is to collect information. Accurate information results in a fair and equitable assessment.
This process is not meant to adjust the assessed value. However, the Assessing Department will update the property record card to reflect the information found at the property, which could change the assessed value.
Properties in Rochester are adjusted citywide, based on market value, during a Revaluation. The City’s last city-wide revaluation was conducted in 2024.
What Property Owners Can Expect:
The Assessing Department will send postcards to selected properties in advance of the inspection. When a member of the Assessing team visits a property, they will:
- Measure the exterior of the buildings.
- Check the property record card for accuracy.
- Ask for an interior inspection, which is not mandatory.
City staff wear photo ID badges and drive white Chevrolet Equinox SUVs with “Assessing Department” and the City seal displayed on each side.
Property owners can schedule an appointment online or by calling the Assessing Department at (603) 332-5109.
