> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.shovels.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How Property Types Are Categorized

> Understand how Shovels categorizes property types in permit data using tax assessor records.

Property types and details in Shovels data are categorized using external data sources.

## Data Source

Property type information is derived from **tax assessor files**, which are included in EDL data deliveries.

## Coverage

There may be gaps in property type coverage because:

* Not all jurisdictions have comprehensive tax assessor data
* Some properties may not have type classifications
* Newer developments may not yet be in assessor records

<Info>
  We are continuously working to improve property type data coverage and accuracy.
</Info>

## Available Classifications

Common property type classifications include:

* Residential (single-family, multi-family)
* Commercial
* Industrial
* Mixed-use

## Using Property Types

### In Shovels Online

Use the "Building" filters to narrow searches by property type.

### In the API

Use the `property_type` parameter in permit and contractor searches.

### In EDL

Property type fields are included in data deliveries with associated tax assessor information.

## Related Articles

* [Permit distribution](/docs/knowledge-base/data/permits/permit-distribution)
* [Filters and sorting](/docs/knowledge-base/shovels-online/filters-and-sorting)