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A Newsletter by the City of Saco, Maine	February, 2005	Return to newsletter index

City of Saco Board of Assessment Review

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In the State of Maine the local assessor's decision may be contested to a review board.

The City of Saco has by law established a local Board of Assessment Review rather than the York County Commissioners as the hearing authority. Saco's Board meets on an as needed basis as required by the number of appeals brought each year.

In order to appeal to the Board, a property owner must appeal to the local assessor within 180 days from the commitment date. If the assessor does not grant the abatement that opens and appeal to the board.

As in most states, the burden of proof falls on the applicant to support his or her claim of over assessment with factual data.

Most citizens always ask what is "factual data." The best factual data is an appraisal done, as of the assessment date, by a state licensed appraiser. Other things that may be considered are a current purchase and sales agreement, list of sales for similar properties with the same size, condition and amenities as the applicants. A land survey or wetlands study if that is what is being contested. The thing to remember is you need to show proof to back up your claim.

The last thing to remember is to not rely on assessments of competing properties as evidence showing that your assessment is too high. You are appealing your assessment not your neighbors.

The law requires that the Board give you a written decision. If you are not happy with the decision you may appeal to theSuperior Court.

For large commercial properties there is a State Board of Assessment Review.