Tax Assessor Frequently Asked Questions

WHY IS MY TAX ASSESSMENT SO HIGH?
The values this year are based on 2004 revaluation market sales. The market value of the land is added to the replacement cost new less depreciation of the improvements, and this total is compared to recent sales of similar style homes in comparable neighborhoods.

WHAT DO THE CODES MEAN WHEN I REVIEW THE REAL ESTATE DATA?
The sketch notations are as follows:
LR - Living Room
DR - Dining Room
EIK - Eat in Kitchen
BR - Bed room
L/L - FAMR - Lower Level Family Room
DEN - Den is a TV room that usually doesn't have a bedroom closet.

Bathrooms:
1F - One fixture bathroom
2F - Two fixture bathroom
3F - Three fixture bathroom
4F SS - Four fixture bathroom with a shower stall
5F - combination of fixtures

Sketch notations on the website indicate that the property was inspected by a revaluation appraiser. Value is determined by square feet of heated living area not room count.

IS THE ASSESSOR IN?
If the Assessor is in he will try to help answer your questions or contact you by phone as soon as possible.

WHY IS MY MOTOR VEHICLE VALUE SO HIGH?
The values placed on motor vehicles are based on the number of days registered during the previous year ending 12/31.The State publishes a schedule of values each year and that value divided by 1000, times the tax rate of $19.87 per thousand equals the new value.

HOW DO I REPORT CHANGES TO MY PROPERTY?
Changes to any improvements should be done only with the issuance of a building permit. Visit the Building Officials Office on the second floor of Town Hall.

DO I QUALIFY FOR AN EXEMPTION?
Call 728-2400 extension 113, or 114, and get the specific qualifications.

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY TAX BILLS?
The Tax Bills are mailed usually during the first week or two in May.

HOW DO I APPEAL MY VALUES?
You must pick up a form called "Appeal to the Tax Assessor". These forms are available in the Tax Assessor's Office between June 1st to August 31st. If you do not file an appeal by August 31st, the appeal process is completed for that year. This is Rhode Island General Law 44-5-26.