The Common Law

Unhappy with your property taxes? This first step to protesting your property value for property taxes is to file a written protest before the deadline (generally May 31 or 30 days after the appraisal district mailed a notice of appraised value). Check out last week's column for more details on filing a written protest.

Once the written protest is filed, the property owner will have the opportunity to go before the Appraisal Review Board. The ARB is a group of citizens appointed by the appraisal district's board of directors that is authorized to resolve disputes between taxpayers and the appraisal district. The ARB listens to evidence from both the property owner/taxpayer and the county's chief appraiser and ultimately determines whether the appraisal district has acted properly.

Be organized, stick to relevant facts, and keep your presentation simple and straightforward during the ARB hearing. Always remember that the ARB must base its decisions on evidence. According to the Texas comptroller's office, the type of evidence the ARB may consider persuasive includes the following:

• Defects not mentioned in the district's survey (cracked foundation, inadequate plumbing, etc.). Take photos and/or get supporting statements from builders, contractors, or appraisers to support your position.

• Incorrect measurements (lot size, square footage, etc.). Locate deed records, surveys, or blueprints, and take photos to prove the inaccuracy.

• Comparison properties. Is there a big difference between the appraised value of your home and others like it in your area? If yes, legitimate comparison sales may demonstrate that your property was not treated equally.

• Hired professionals. A property owner may want to consider hiring an independent appraiser and/or attorney if the amount in dispute is significant.

• The ARB will provide at least 15 days' notice of the hearing date (most hearings are conducted between mid-May and late July). The taxpayer will also receive a copy of ARB procedures and "Texas Property Taxes: Taxpayers' Rights, Remedies and Responsibilities," which will explain the hearing process in more detail. Check out the detailed information published by the Texas comptroller's office (www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/proptax/remedy08) to learn more about protesting property taxes.