Q. What are the functions of the Department of Assessment? A. The Department of Assessment locates property and inventory data, tracks ownership of all property in the town, places value on property, processes exemptions, prepares and creates the assessment roll, prepares and submits reports to the New York State Office of Real Property Services and assists the public by providing information with regard to all of the above.
Q. I think that my property tax/assessment is too high, how do I check this? A. Try to locate three or four properties, within your neighborhood of similar size and style. The Department of Assessment will check the assessments of these homes for you.
Q. My assessment seems higher than similar size and style homes in my neighborhood. How do I go about getting my assessment reduced? A. A grievance form along with supporting documentation can be filed with the Department of Assessment on or before Grievance Day which is the third Tuesday in May of each year.
Q. How do you arrive at my assessment? A. To arrive at your assessment, we use The J.M. Cleminshaw Co. Cost To Construct Manual. The assessment is based on square footage and any amenities that may contribute value to your home.
Q. Are there any programs that can help lower my taxes? A. Yes, you may be eligible for a property tax exemption. To inquire about the various property tax exemptions that are available to those residents who meet the N.Y.S. requirements, please contact the Department of Assessment at 631-957-3014.
