Assessor: Check Home Assessments for Accuracy

Ela Township residents should take a close look at their home assessments to verify the information is accurate, advises John Barrington, Ela Township assessor.

“We are looking at neighborhoods one-by-one to find any errors that exist; we are asking homeowners to go over their assessments to ensure everything is proper,” Barrington said at Thursday night's township board meeting.

Inaccuracies could  include even the number of fireplaces in a home; Barrington said in one instance two fireplaces were documented in a home when there was only one, and that mistake increased the home’s assessment value.   

“There are a large number of homes that we don't have updated information on; in many instances they are homes that have had the same homeowner for 20 years or more,” said Barrington.

There also are opportunities for senior citizens to take advantage of assessment freezes, as well as breaks for veterans and those who are disabled.  

“If seniors have their initial exemption, they do not need to re-apply, but to qualify for the senior freeze, a new application is required,” said Barrington.

For additional information, contact the assessor’s office at 847-438-8370.

The next Ela Township Board meeting will be held on Thursday, April 7.