The City of Airdrie will mail the 2013 annual assessment notices to all property owners on Jan. 28.
The assessed value will reflect the value of property based on July 1, 2012 economic conditions, and its physical condition and characteristics as of December 31, 2012.
The notices are mailed in advance of property tax notices to allow owners 60 days to review assessments and raise any concerns with City staff before taxes are calculated.
“If (residents) have questions, we strongly encourage them to call us,” said Suzette DeMott, manager of the City’s assessment, taxation and utilities department.
DeMott said residents should carefully check their assessments, ensuring they include the proper name, address, school support, classification, such as residential, farmland or non-residential. The assessment should also accurately describe one’s property.
She added residents and business owners are also encouraged to compare their assessments to other properties similar in size, age, quality, condition and location. The comparison can be done online at www.airdrie.ca/airdriemap
“Assessments should be similar to others in the area,” said DeMott.
Residents and business owners who have questions or concerns after reviewing their assessments and comparing their property with other similar ones in the community are encouraged to contact an assessor at 403-948-8855.
“If they have questions, we strongly encourage them to call us,” said DeMott. “We are more than willing to come out and do a re-inspection.”
DeMott added if an agreement can’t be reached, property owners have the option of filing an assessment appeal.
Market value assessments are done annually and reflect the amount a property may be worth if sold.
DeMott said the City values property based on provincial legislation and regulations. The purpose of the assessment is not to reflect a single-sale price, but to assess all properties at typical market value on the same valuation date.
“We analyze all sales that occur between July and July (each year) and from that we are able to determine what is typical market value,” she said. “The purpose is to make sure everyone is paying their fair share of the taxes.”
As assessment values increase or decrease, the tax rates will change accordingly, according to a City press release. Taxation notices will be mailed on May 27, 2013.
Property taxes are due June 28, unless they are part of the monthly tax payment plan.
Taxes not paid by the due date will be subject to a five per cent penalty on July 4 and a further nine per cent penalty on Aug. 1.
