COLUMBUS, Ohio – In response to this week’s high rain and flooding across central Ohio, the Franklin County Auditor’s office reminds home and business owners that they may be eligible to receive a reduction on their annual real estate tax bill if their property is damaged or destroyed.

State law gives county auditors the authority to reduce real estate values for properties that have been damaged or destroyed by storms. A substantial reduction in property value could result in lower real estate taxes for the property until it has been restored to its prior condition or value.

Property value reductions can be applied to real property, including manufactured homes.

“The Franklin County Auditor’s office wants to help residents and businesses affected by storm damage,” Mike Stinziano said. “I encourage anyone whose property suffers structural damage to take advantage of the opportunity to seek potential tax relief.”

The application deadline for property damage that has occurred since January 1, 2021 is December 31, 2021.

Applications for a property value reduction as well as additional information are available on the Franklin County Auditor’s website at www.franklincountyauditor.com/real-estate/tax-reduction-programs/damaged-destroyed-form.

Property owners can also get additional information by calling the Franklin County Auditor’s office at (614) 525-HOME or emailing AuditorStinziano@franklincountyohio.gov.