Appeals

State law ensures property owners the right to appeal their assessment. Assessed value notices are mailed the first week in January of even numbered years.

Assessment Reviews

Administrative, in-house reviews of assessments are conducted by the City Assessor's Office 30 days after receiving assessment notice. This can be done by requesting an Application of the Review of Assessment form from the Assessor's Office by phone at (804) 520-9272, in person, or by letter to:

Assessor's Office
City of Colonial Heights
201 James Ave.
P.O. Box 3401
Colonial Heights, VA 23834

Judicial Review

Next in the appeal process is a judicial review by the Board of Equalization. The board is composed of three individuals who must reside and own real property in the City of Colonial Heights who are appointed every three years by the Circuit Court. An Application for the Review of Assessment by the board can be requested from the City Assessor's Office by phone, in person, or by letter. The Board of Equalization must receive the application, required documentation, and a letter of authorization within 60 days of receiving the assessment notice.

Correction / Revision of Board Decisions

Any taxpayer disagreeing with a decision of the Board of Equalization may apply to the Circuit Court of Colonial Heights for correction or revision of the decision of the board. The decision to petition the courts rests solely with the property owner and is not a recourse required by the city or the City Assessor's Office. Although not required, it is suggested that the property owner acquire the services of an attorney.

Documentation

An appeal of the assessed value of real estate must be supported by documentation indicating the property is not assessed at market value or is not assessed uniformly / equitably in relation to like or similar properties.