Why is Realty Data Systems (RDS) inspecting my property?
RDS has been engaged for property inspections in support of your municipality’s annual tax reassessment. These reassessments provide a more cost effective and accurate process for property valuations by reflecting changes in the market. New Jersey law requires that an interior and exterior inspection of all properties take place periodically, which typically occurs once every 5 years.
If my home was inspected in recent years, will another inspection be required?
Yes. If you have received a postcard notifying you that an inspection will take place, or a notice has been left at your property during our visit, an inspection is required this year. The previous inspection was likely part of a community-wide “revaluation” or a previous annual inspection cycle. Once this year’s inspection has been completed, you can expect it to be an average of 4 years until another inspection is scheduled. If improvements are made to your property during this period, a second inspection could take place at an earlier time.
Will this inspection affect my property assessment and tax amounts?
While our inspectors collect essential property data on behalf of your municipality, RDS plays no role in determining your property assessment or tax amount. For this reason, our staff has been instructed to direct any questions on these topics to your municipal Tax Assessor. Our sole focus is to ensure that property records are complete and accurate.
What is a Remote Virtual Inspection (an “RV”)?
RVs are completed using video call software and were originally created by RDS in response to health concerns surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic. RDS’ RV process was incorporated into state law effective June 30, 2021. These interior inspections require no entry to your home or office, appointments or app downloads, and you can contact us at any time between 9am and 5pm, Monday thru Friday, at (732) 719-2265 (choose Option 1).
How can I schedule an interior inspection?
Please note that no appointments for in-person interior inspections can be made at this time. If you received an initial postcard regarding your inspection, we will be visiting your property soon to complete an exterior inspection. If you received a door hanger, our visit(s) has already taken place but RVs will be available for an additional 2 weeks. Our initial mailing and door hangers also contain the instructions provided above for completing an RV by contacting our office. In some cases, you will also receive a second mailed reminder to complete your RV.
How can I be certain of an inspector’s identity before allowing him/her into my home?
All inspectors will be wearing a high-visibility jacket, and will be displaying an RDS photo ID. In addition, all properties subject to inspection are mailed a notification card prior to any visit, and inspectors are registered with your local police department.
When are the inspectors coming and what if I am not home?
Inspections usually begin within weeks of notification cards being received. There is unfortunately no way to know the exact time an inspector will be at your home. The inspections will be done in groups, in block and lot order from 9AM to dusk. If you are not home, the inspector will complete an exterior inspection and leave a door hanger with instructions for completing an RV interior inspection. In some cases, your property will be visited again and you may receive a final reminder in the mail containing RV instructions.
Can I refuse an inspection?
Yes, you have the right to refuse an interior inspection during our visit, or to complete the Refusal Form found in the “Inspections” section of our website to be excluded from our route. Please note that in the absence of an inspection, your Tax Assessor may be forced to make estimates regarding your property’s features, condition and other factors – all of which may affect your tax assessment and lead to errors on your property record card. A refused inspection also impacts a property owner’s rights to pursue an assessment appeal.
Can I view my current property record card?
Yes. All property record cards are available in the assessor’s office or by visiting https://oprs.co.monmouth.nj.us/oprs/External.aspx?iId=12. Select your County and District (Municipality) and input your street address in the Location field, then choose “Submit Search”. If you find any inaccuracies or incorrect information, please contact your Tax Assessor’s office.
What information is being collected by the inspectors?
Our inspectors are required to collect information on the features and conditions of your home or other property types, including but not limited to:
- Exterior measurements
- Exterior improvements (pool, deck, patio, etc)
- Type of heat
- Air conditioning
- Number of rooms
- Number of bathrooms
- Pictures will be taken of the EXTERIOR of the structures for the municipal data base.
If have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact our office.