How to Protest Your Rockwall Appraisal as a Fate Owner

Did your Notice of Appraised Value land in your mailbox with a number that feels too high? You are not alone, and you have real options as a Fate homeowner. In this guide, you will learn the exact deadlines, how to file with Rockwall CAD, the evidence that works, and what to expect at each step. Let’s dive in.

Know your Rockwall deadline

Your protest deadline is time sensitive. In Texas, the general rule is May 15 or 30 days after the appraisal district mailed your Notice of Appraised Value, whichever is later. Always use the date on your personal notice to calculate your due date, and file before it expires. You can confirm the rule and forms on the state’s guidance for appraisal protests and appeals.

File your protest with Rockwall CAD

You can file using Form 50-132 or by submitting a written protest that clearly identifies you, your property, and what you are disputing. When you file, state your reasons, such as market value, unequal appraisal, incorrect property details, or exemption issues. Check the box or include a written request for the appraisal district’s evidence packet so you can review the comparables and data they plan to use. Filing options include mail, in person, and an online system if Rockwall CAD offers one. See state instructions on how to file and what to include.

Local contact to file or ask about online options:

• Rockwall Central Appraisal District, 841 Justin Rd., Rockwall, TX 75087, phone 972-771-2034. Verify current contact details through the Comptroller’s Rockwall County directory. Keep proof of filing, such as a mail receipt or online confirmation.

Prepare strong evidence

What the ARB looks for

Bring clear, documented proof that supports your position. Useful evidence includes:

• Recent comparable sales near the January 1 valuation date with addresses, dates, prices, and any adjustments. A CMA or MLS comps work well. See examples of acceptable evidence on the state protest page.
• Your closing statement or purchase contract if you bought recently, especially if your price is lower than the appraised value.
• Photos and contractor estimates showing condition issues, damage, or missing features that reduce value. Emphasize the property’s condition as of January 1.
• Documentation to correct CAD records, such as square footage, bedrooms, pool, additions, or lot size. Use surveys, plans, inspection reports, or deeds.
• An unequal appraisal grid comparing your assessment to similar homes if you believe you were assessed higher than peers.

Practical prep steps

• Request the CAD evidence packet at filing so you can review their comps and cost approach data ahead of the hearing.
• Bring multiple printed copies of your evidence for the ARB panel and the appraisal district. Follow the ARB’s procedures for any electronic files.
• If you want a representative to attend for you, file the Appointment of Agent form (Form 50-162) described on the state protest page.

What to expect after filing

Informal conference

After you file, you can request an informal meeting with an appraiser at Rockwall CAD. Many disputes are resolved here if you present clear evidence and a reasonable value request. If you reach an agreement, the process can end without a formal hearing.

ARB hearing

If you do not settle informally, you will receive written notice with your Appraisal Review Board hearing date, time, and location. At least 14 days before the hearing, you should receive the Taxpayer Assistance Pamphlet and the ARB’s adopted procedures. Review these materials so you know how time limits, evidence exchange, and copies will work. You can learn what the ARB must provide in the Comptroller’s public information packet and protest guidance.

Attendance options

You may attend in person, by phone or videoconference if allowed, or submit a sworn written affidavit. Both sides present evidence, then the ARB issues a written order for that tax year. See what to expect at hearings on the state protest page.

Results and next steps

If your value is reduced, the appraisal district will notify taxing units and your tax bill will reflect the change. If you already paid, you may be due a refund. If the ARB upholds or increases the value, you can accept the result or continue to appeal.

If you disagree with the ARB

• Regular binding arbitration is available for residence homesteads at any value or for properties appraised at 5 million dollars or less. You must file within 60 days of receiving the ARB order and pay the required deposit. Review eligibility, fees, and forms on the Comptroller’s arbitration information page in the PTAD newsletter.
• Appeal to state district court is another option. Petitions are generally due within 60 days after you receive the ARB order. Courts may require a partial prepayment of taxes and have procedural requirements. See the overview on appraisal protests and appeals.
• In limited cases involving higher-value properties and certain issues, you may qualify to appeal to the State Office of Administrative Hearings. Details are available in the state protest guidance above.

Missed the deadline?

The ARB can grant a late hearing only in limited “good cause” situations, such as failure to receive required notice or certain clerical errors. If you believe this applies, contact Rockwall CAD immediately and ask what documentation is needed. See the late protest rules in the state’s protest guidance.

Local contacts for Fate owners

• Rockwall Central Appraisal District: 841 Justin Rd., Rockwall, TX 75087. Phone 972-771-2034. Verify current details on the Comptroller’s Rockwall County directory. Use Rockwall CAD to file protests, request evidence, and ask about online filing options.
• Rockwall County Tax Office: for tax billing and payment questions after an appraisal change, call 972-204-6130. Office information is on the county’s Tax Office page.

Quick checklist

• Locate your Notice of Appraised Value and note your exact protest deadline.
• Confirm your homestead and any other exemptions are correct.
• File your protest with Rockwall CAD using Form 50-132 or a written notice, and request the CAD evidence packet.
• Assemble evidence: comps or closing statement, photos, repair estimates, surveys or plans, and a brief summary of your requested value.
• Attend an informal conference. If unresolved, prepare for the ARB hearing and follow the ARB’s procedures for copies and timing.

We are here to help

If you want a local perspective on comparable sales, pricing strategy, or how your appraisal might affect a future sale or purchase in Fate, our team is ready to talk. Tap into neighborhood-level insight, clear communication, and a practical plan for your next step. Start the conversation with Sarah Naylor.

FAQs

When is my Rockwall appraisal protest due?

• The legal rule is May 15 or 30 days after the appraisal district mailed your notice, whichever is later, so use the date printed on your notice to set your deadline. See the state’s guidance on protests and appeals.

What evidence helps most at an ARB hearing?

• Strong comps near January 1, recent purchase documents, photos and estimates for condition issues, and proof of incorrect CAD data are all effective. See examples in the state protest guidance.

Can I resolve this without a formal hearing?

• Yes. You can request an informal conference with Rockwall CAD after filing, and many protests settle at that stage. Steps are outlined on the state protest page.

What happens if I disagree with the ARB’s decision?

• You may request regular binding arbitration within 60 days, appeal to district court, or in limited cases use SOAH. Review eligibility and deadlines in the PTAD arbitration info and the state’s appeals overview.

Who do I contact in Rockwall County to file?

• File with Rockwall Central Appraisal District, 841 Justin Rd., Rockwall, TX 75087, phone 972-771-2034. Verify details via the Comptroller’s Rockwall County directory.