Commercial Property Field Inspections: What to Expect

Each fall, the Bexar Central Appraisal District (BCAD) conducts on-site inspections of commercial properties to prepare values for the next tax year. By law (Texas Property Tax Code §25.18), all properties must be reappraised at least once every three years. This means not every property will be inspected every fall.

Here is what you can expect if we visit your property:

Your Rights and Our Limits

• Inspection of interior or other non-public areas is by permission only.
• If access is denied, we will complete the inspection from public areas and with aerial photos.
• We will never ask for payment, collect information unrelated to appraisal, or enter restricted areas without your permission.

 How to Verify an Appraiser

Our appraisers can be identified by:

• Clothing with the Bexar Central Appraisal District logo
• State-mandated license from the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation
• District photo ID badge and business cards
• Bexar Central Appraisal District vehicle magnet

If you are unsure, call 210-242-2432 to verify an appraiser’s identity before granting access. 

What Happens During a Visit

• We identify ourselves and the purpose of the visit.
• We observe the external characteristics of the property (examples: occupancy indicators, condition, construction status) without interrupting your business operations.
• We take exterior photos of the building and site features from public areas or areas you have permitted us to access.
• We may ask brief, clarifying questions (examples: current occupancy, construction timelines).
• Before leaving, we notify the on-site representative (if available), answer any questions they may have, and then leave the premises promptly.

Photography & Privacy

• Photos are limited to building exteriors and site improvements.
• We do not photograph people (owners, customers, or tenants).
• Photos are used only to keep appraisal records accurate.

Our goal with each field inspection is transparency, safety, and minimal disruption to property owners. 

If you have questions, please contact us at:

Bexar Central Appraisal District
411 N Frio St
PO Box 830248
San Antonio, TX 78283-0248
Phone: 210-242-2432
Fax: 210-242-2454 or 210-242-2453