Assessment Department
Assessment Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about assessments.
What is a property assessment?
An assessment is the valuation of all properties within a municipality.
A proper assessment ensures that you will pay a fair amount of tax according
to the value of your property in comparison with neighbouring properties.
Land, and any improvements to the land such as buildings, structures and
machinery or equipment associated with industrial facilities are taken
into account when doing an assessment.
How is my property assessed?
All land is assessed at either market value or on its productivity value
if being farmed. All farm buildings except for the farm residence are
exempt from assessment. Non-farm improvements to the land are assessed
at market value. Industrial properties are assessed under regulated ministerial
guidelines. To ensure province-wide equity, the Department of Municipal
Affairs annually audits all assessments and market analysis.
How often is my property assessed?
Provincial legislation dictates that a general assessment must be conducted
every year. This consists of updating the assessed value to reflect current
market conditions and any other changes that occur, including new development,
progressive buildings and farm status.
Can I appeal my taxes and assessment?
You cannot dispute your taxes, but you can appeal your assessment. If you feel your property assessment is unfair, you must submit your appeal within 60 days of the mailing of your combined assessment / taxation notice. You can compare your assessment with others by visiting the County Administration Office and reviewing the Assessment Roll.
If your assessment seems out of proportion, you are encouraged to take the following steps:
- Make an appointment with the Assessor to discuss your assessment.
- If, after seeing the Assessor, you are still unsatisfied, you may appeal to the Assessment Review Board. To do this, you will need to submit an Assessment Review Board Complaint Form and a fee of $50.00 per farm / residential parcel or $650 per commercial / industrial parcel to the Clerk of the Assessment Review Board, within 60 days from the mailing date of the combined assessment / taxation notice. You will then be advised of the date and time of your scheduled appeal. The Assessment Review Board cannot alter the system of taxation or assessment, but will ensure a fair assessment of your property. Assessment Complaint Form
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