Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a reassessment and why do it?
Property values have changed so much over the years that inequities have emerged. A reassessment addresses these inequities so that, in the end, each property owner pays their fair share of the tax burden. When the reassessment is complete, your new assessment should reflect the fair market value of your property.

How will reassessment affect my taxes?
By itself, a reassessment does not increase or decrease tax revenue; it merely redistributes the total tax burden more fairly. Some owners will see increases while others will see decreases. The amount of total taxes collected will remain the same unless budgets are changed. Reassessment itself is revenue-neutral.

What is the first step in your process?
One of the most important aspects of reassessing is collecting the most accurate data possible. This is achieved by performing physical inspections. We will do this by using data collectors from Tyler Technologies and by inspecting every property in the City of South Burlington.

What will a data collector do when he/she comes to my property?
Here are a few examples of what the data collector will check: Current use; measurements of the exterior; number of stories; construction materials; room, bed, and bath count; out buildings, pools, decks; type of heating; finished basements, attic use, etc.; verify recent sales if any; ask permission to view the interior of the property to determine the quality and condition of the dwelling. He/she will NOT be collecting any information on personal property, such as artwork, furniture, home décor or appliances.

How will I know when data collectors are scheduled to be in my neighborhood?
There will be a public notice published in the local paper a few weeks before we anticipate visiting each property. Local police and the assessor will receive advanced schedules listing the streets where Tyler Technologies staff will be working.

How long will the inspection take?
Typical properties take 15 to 20 minutes to inspect. Large dwellings will require more time. You are encouraged to accompany the data collector during the inspection, as he/she verifies the data currently on record or lists any new data as it is collected for the property.

Do I have to cooperate with Tyler Technologies?
We encourage all taxpayers to participate in the reassessment project.  It is crucial that everyone is a partner with us to ensure accurate data collection for all. If you choose not to allow access to your property, please contact the City Assessor as soon as possible to discuss available options.

Will every property be inspected?
Yes. There will be an exterior inspection during which measurements of each structure are taken in addition to at least 3 attempts to inspect the interior of all properties

What if I’m not home when the data collector visits?
Data collectors will inspect your property, including measuring the exterior during the day and/or early evening hours before dark. If you are not available when the initial inspection is done, a second visit will then be made after 5:00PM. If you are not available after the second attempt, a third visit will be made on a Saturday. A data mailer will be left on your front door requesting that you fill out the mailer and mail it to the assessor’s office.

Do I have to let the data collector inside?
While owners and occupants are not obligated to allow data collectors to enter their property, interior information is required under Vermont State guidelines so characteristics will be estimated if they cannot be observed.

Will I be afforded the opportunity to review the data collected for my property?
Yes. Parcel data will be available for review on our website once the new values are determined and released to the public.

How will the value of my property be determined?
Based upon the data collected during the inspection of your property, Tyler Technologies appraisers will utilize a computer-assisted mass-appraisal system and current economic information to estimate your property’s current market value.

When and how will I find out my new value?
Notice of new values will be released to all property owners around April 1, 2021. The notice will show both your old and new assessed values. The notice will also give instructions on how to contact someone to schedule a meeting with an appraiser to discuss the new value.

What if I disagree with the new value?
Value review meetings will be conducted by Tyler Technologies during which you may submit information supporting a different value. The information will be reviewed and a determination made on whether to change the value based on the information you present. You will be notified of the determination made following the completion of the taxpayer reviews. If you are not satisfied with the results of the informal review, a formal appeal may be filed with the Board of Civil Review.  If you have any other questions, please email the Director of Assessment & Tax Collection; Martha Lyons mlyons@sburl.com