COLUMBUS, Ohio — Franklin County homeowners whose properties were damaged by severe thunderstorms, flooding and high winds this week may qualify for a temporary reduction in assessed property value, potentially lowering their real estate taxes while repairs are underway.
Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano issued the reminder after severe weather moved through central Ohio on Monday and Tuesday, August 10 and 11. Franklin County was included in several National Weather Service Severe Thunderstorm Warnings and Flood Warnings as heavy rainfall and powerful wind gusts affected communities across the region.
Several inches of rain were recorded in the area, accompanied by wind gusts of around 80 mph. The combination of flooding, strong winds and heavy precipitation created the potential for significant damage to homes and other structures.
Ohio Law Provides Relief for Damaged Properties
Under Ohio law, county auditors have the authority to temporarily reduce the real estate value of properties that have been damaged or destroyed.
A substantial decline in a property’s value following storm damage may result in lower real estate taxes until the home or other affected structure is repaired or restored.
The provision is designed to ensure that a property’s assessed value can reflect its condition following a damaging event rather than remaining based solely on its value before the damage occurred.
“Monday and Tuesday’s flooding and severe winds might have caused significant damage for some Franklin County homeowners,” Auditor Stinziano said. “If your property was damaged, our office wants you to know there may be relief available. We encourage property owners to file for a temporary reduction in value if they believe their property qualifies.”
The temporary adjustment could provide some financial relief for homeowners facing repair expenses and other costs associated with recovering from severe weather.
Auditor’s Office Can Proactively Adjust Property Values
Property owners can apply for a temporary reduction, but the Franklin County Auditor’s office also has the authority under Ohio law to identify damaged properties and proactively reduce their values.
If the office identifies a property that has sustained qualifying damage and determines that its value should be adjusted, the homeowner will receive a letter notifying them of the proposed change.
This process can help identify eligible properties even when homeowners have not independently submitted an application.
Any adjustment would depend on the circumstances surrounding the individual property and the extent to which the storm damage affected its real estate value.
Homeowners Can Submit Applications Online or by Form
Franklin County property owners who believe their home or another structure sustained qualifying damage can apply online or complete a printed application form.
Homeowners are not required to provide supporting documentation when filing an application. However, additional information may help officials evaluate the extent of the property damage.
Photos of damaged areas, repair estimates from contractors and information related to insurance claims are among the materials property owners may choose to provide.
The availability of the program does not mean every home affected by the thunderstorms will automatically receive a reduction. The extent of the damage and its impact on the property’s value will determine whether an adjustment is appropriate.
Severe Weather Leaves Property Owners Assessing Damage
The reminder comes as homeowners across Franklin County and other parts of central Ohio assess the effects of the storms.
Severe thunderstorms can cause a range of property problems, including roof damage, fallen trees, water intrusion and flooding. Strong wind gusts can also damage exterior structures and other parts of residential properties.
For homeowners dealing with substantial losses, Ohio’s property valuation rules provide a mechanism for assessed values to temporarily reflect storm-related damage.
Franklin County officials are encouraging property owners affected by the August 10 and 11 storms to consider whether their properties may qualify for a temporary value reduction. Any reduction could remain relevant while damaged structures are being repaired or restored, helping align property taxation with the property’s condition during the recovery period.
