Real estate property taxes are used as a source of revenue by Counties, School Districts, and local municipalities (Cities, Townships, and Boroughs).

The County Assessment Office for each county establishes a value on each parcel of land and its structures/improvements.

After an assessment is generated or changed the property owner is mailed an “Interim Real Estate Assessment Appeal” notice.

All property owners have the right to appeal if they do not agree with the assessment of their property.

Appeals for Interim Assessments

Interim assessments due to new construction (or catastrophic accident) represent the value difference attributable to any assessable improvement to the land (or catastrophic accident) and the resulting increase (or decrease) in the land value, if any. Some examples of assessable improvements include, but are not limited to, new construction of a primary residence; additions to residential structures, and the construction of any ancillary or contributory improvements such as swimming pools, etc. If a property is subject to an interim assessment, a property owner will receive an “Interim Real Estate Assessment Notice.” This Notice will inform the property owner of the old assessment and new assessment and his/her/its right to appeal.

Annual Appeals

Property owners also have an opportunity to appeal their assessment once a year. By appealing, the property owner should be aware that the property is open to a re-valuation process in which the property assessment may be lowered, raised or remain the same.