How to File a Property Value Complaint in Tuscarawas County

Filing a property value complaint in Tuscarawas County can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time navigating the process. Many homeowners worry they might miss deadlines, provide incomplete evidence or fail to present their case effectively. This guide walks you step-by-step through identifying your property’s assessed value, deciding if an appeal is necessary, obtaining and completing the official complaint form, submitting it correctly, attending hearings, and understanding the Board of Revision’s decisions. By following this guide, you’ll know exactly how to challenge your property assessment without confusion or unnecessary stress.

Identify and Review Your Current Property Value

Before filing a complaint, it’s essential to review your property’s current assessed value. We’ll guide you on how to check your property records on the Tuscarawas County Auditor website and note any discrepancies. You’ll learn how to compare your property’s assessment against similar properties in your neighborhood and recognize if your property is overvalued. This step ensures you have the facts needed to decide whether a formal complaint is necessary and prepares you to provide strong evidence for your case.

How to Access Property Records

Start by visiting the Tuscarawas County Auditor website. Locate your property using your parcel number or address. Check the assessed value, property description and any notes about improvements or features. Compare these details to similar properties nearby. If you notice inconsistencies or unusually high values, these observations will form the foundation of your complaint. Keeping a record of your findings ensures you have accurate information when filling out the complaint form.

When to Consider Filing an Appeal

Filing an appeal is recommended if your property appears over-assessed, contains inaccuracies, or suffers from issues that reduce its market value, such as damage, maintenance problems or incorrect property descriptions. Understanding whether an appeal is justified helps prevent unnecessary filings and strengthens your case by focusing only on legitimate discrepancies. This step saves time, avoids stress, and improves the likelihood of a favorable outcome from the Board of Revision.

Obtain the Official Complaint Form

Tuscarawas County provides a formal complaint form, commonly referred to as the DTE‑1 form. We’ll show you how to obtain it from the Auditor’s office, complete it accurately, and prepare it for submission. Using the correct form and filling it out completely ensures your complaint is accepted and considered valid within the official appeal process.

How to Get the DTE‑1 Form

Contact the Tuscarawas County Auditor office by phone at 330‑365‑3220 or email auditor@co.tuscarawas.oh.us Request the “Complaint Against Valuation of Real Property” form. This form is essential for submitting your property value dispute officially. Ensure you have the latest version and carefully review instructions provided by the office to avoid errors.

Completing the Form

Fill out the form completely and accurately. Include your property details, assessed value concerns, and a clear explanation of why you believe the assessment is incorrect. Attach supporting documentation, such as comparable property sales, independent appraisals, photographs of damage, or maintenance records. A well-prepared form with supporting evidence demonstrates your credibility and strengthens your appeal before the Board of Revision.

Evidence for Market Value & Damaged Property

When filing a property value complaint in Tuscarawas County, providing strong supporting evidence is crucial. We’ll guide you on what documents to include to prove that your property is over-assessed or affected by damage. Proper evidence increases the chances that the Board of Revision (BOR) will review your case fairly and adjust your property assessment if justified.

Market Value Evidence

If you believe your property is assessed higher than its true market value, gather documentation to support your claim. This may include:

• Recent sales of comparable properties in your neighborhood.
• Independent appraisal reports showing your property’s fair market value.
• Purchase agreements or contracts that indicate the actual purchase price.

These documents demonstrate discrepancies between your property’s assessed value and real market trends, giving the BOR concrete reasons to consider a reduction.

Damaged or Poor Condition Property

If your property has physical damage, maintenance issues, or other conditions that reduce its value, include evidence such as:

• Photos of structural damage, wear, or maintenance problems.
• Repair estimates or invoices for major maintenance work.
• Inspection reports showing condition-related concerns.

Presenting these materials with your complaint shows the BOR why your property assessment should be reconsidered. Well-documented evidence increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

Submit Your Complaint Within the Filing Window

Tuscarawas County requires that all property value complaints be filed between January 1 and March 31. Missing this window means you cannot appeal your property’s assessment for that tax year. We’ll explain how to submit your form, whether in person or by mail, and what steps ensure your submission is officially recorded.

Submission Guidelines

Submit your completed and signed complaint form to the Tuscarawas County Auditor’s office. Some submissions may require notarization, so confirm requirements beforehand. If mailing your form, consider using certified mail or tracking options to ensure delivery confirmation. Following proper submission procedures prevents unnecessary delays or rejection of your complaint.

Attend the Board of Revision Hearing

After submission, the Board of Revision (BOR) may schedule a hearing. The BOR typically includes the County Auditor, County Treasurer and a County Commissioner. We’ll guide you on how to present your evidence effectively and what to expect during the hearing, ensuring you feel prepared and confident.

Presenting Your Case

During the BOR hearing, you or an authorized representative present your case. Share your evidence clearly, such as comparable property sales, appraisal reports, or photos demonstrating property damage. Answer questions honestly and stay focused on the facts. Proper presentation increases the likelihood that the BOR will review your assessment carefully and consider adjustments to your property value.

Receive and Understand the Decision

Once the BOR completes its review, you will receive a decision by mail or email. We’ll explain how to interpret the results, understand tax recalculations if your value is reduced, and explore next steps if you disagree with the decision.

Actions After the BOR Decision

If your appeal is approved, the auditor’s office will revise your property value and recalculate taxes. Any overpayments may result in a credit or refund. If the BOR denies your appeal, you may have the option to appeal to a higher authority, such as the state tax board or a common pleas court, depending on Ohio law. Maintaining records of all forms, correspondence, and decisions is crucial for any further appeals.

Keep Comprehensive Records

We emphasize maintaining thorough documentation throughout the complaint process. Copies of submitted forms, evidence, mail receipts, hearing notices and decision letters help protect your rights and support any subsequent appeals. Organized records ensure you can reference past submissions and provide clear proof if needed.

Example of Supporting Evidence

Suppose your property assessment is $250,000, but similar nearby homes are assessed at $200,000. Include comparable sales, photographs showing property damage, and an independent appraisal report. These documents demonstrate discrepancies and provide a factual basis for your complaint, increasing the chances of a favorable BOR decision.

Conclusion

Filing a property value complaint in Tuscarawas County may seem complicated at first, but by following the proper steps, you can ensure your property assessment is fair. Start by reviewing your property records, gather supporting evidence, complete the DTE‑1 form accurately, and submit it within the January 1–March 31 window. Attend the Board of Revision hearing prepared, and keep all documentation organized. By taking these steps, you protect your rights as a homeowner and increase the chances of a successful appeal.

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