(a) The assessor is not bound to accept a return as correct. The assessor may make an independent investigation of property returned or of taxable property on which no return has been filed. In either case, the assessor may make the assessor's own valuation of the property subject to an ad valorem tax and this valuation is prima facie evidence of the value of the property.

(b) For investigation, the assessor or the assessor's agent may enter real property during reasonable hours to examine visible personal property and the exterior of a dwelling or other structure on the real property. The assessor or the assessor's agent may enter and examine the interior of a dwelling or other structure or the personal property in it only (1) if the structure is under construction and not yet occupied; (2) with the permission of a person in actual possession of the structure; or (3) in accordance with a court order to compel the entry and inspection. The assessor or the assessor's agent may examine all property records involved. A person shall, on request, furnish to the assessor or the assessor's agent assistance for the investigation and permit the assessor or the assessor's agent to enter a dwelling or other structure to examine the structure or personal property in it during reasonable hours. The assessor may seek a court order to compel entry and production of records needed for assessment purposes.

(c) An assessor may examine a person on oath. On request, the person shall submit to examination at a reasonable time and place selected by the assessor.