How Durham County appraisers will inspect properties and use permit data

Durham County tax appraisers will conduct field visits in identification uniforms and tax administration vehicles to verify square footage, condition and depreciation on properties, the tax administrator said. "Those appraisers are out taking listings... verifying the information of the property," Keyard Doyle explained, noting staff measure exteriors and record condition during visits.

Doyle said the office receives copies of City of Durham permits when owners apply for building permits, and those permit records alert the tax office to additions—such as an extra bedroom, deck, or a remodeled kitchen—that affect a property’s listing and assessed value. The county also schedules one‑on‑one informational meetings during the review period for property owners to speak with an appraiser.