Abatement is a lowering of the assessed value on real or personal property. The lower assessment results in a lower tax bill. Abatements may be issued for reasons of
- Over Assessment
- The property is assessed for more than its market value
- Disproportionate Assessment
- The property is assessed for more than similar properties in the town
- Improper Classification
- The property is classified as Commercial or Industrial and should be Residential
Abatement applications must be filed with the Board of Assessors within 30 days of the mailing of the first actual tax bill. The filing deadline is typically February 1. Form 128 (Available January 1st) is used for this application. The Town requires a full interior and exterior inspection as part of the abatement process. If a taxpayer disagrees with the Board of Assessors' action on an abatement application, the issue may be appealed to the Appellate Tax Board.