Tropical Storm Chantal - Property Tax & Value Information

Tropical Storm Chantal caused significant flooding and property damage in parts of Orange County. We understand that many residents and property owners are dealing with emotional and financial stress as they recover.

This page provides information about how storm-related damage may affect your property’s assessed value for property tax purposes and what steps you can take to protect your interests.

How Property Tax Values Are Set in North Carolina

In North Carolina, property values for tax purposes are established through a countywide revaluation. During a revaluation, real property is appraised at its market value as of January 1 of the revaluation year.

Orange County’s most recent revaluation was effective January 1, 2025.

After revaluation, real property’s value generally remains the same until the next countywide revaluation unless there are changes in real property. These changes may include new construction, additions, renovations, demolition, or damage that changes the condition of the property.

This ensures that property records remain accurate and reflect significant changes that occur between revaluations.

How Storm Damage May Affect Property Value

If Tropical Storm Chantal caused damage to your home, business, or other structures, that damage may affect your property’s value if it results in a measurable and verifiable change to the condition of the property.

Examples may include:

  • Structural damage that reduces the usability or condition of a building
  • Permanent loss of improvements such as garages, sheds, decks, or finished areas
  • Demolition or removal of damaged structures
  • Repairs or rebuilding that change the characteristics of the property

Storm damage does not automatically change a property value. The Tax Administration office must be able to verify the changes through documentation, permits, inspections, or other reliable information.

What You Can Do Now

There are several steps you can take now to protect your interests and be ready for future assessments.

  • Document the damage. Take clear photos and videos of all damage, inside and outside. Keep copies of insurance claims, contractor estimates, and repair invoices.
  • Keep records of repairs. Save receipts, contracts, and permits for any repair or rebuilding work. These records help us understand how your property has changed.
  • Tell us about major changes. If a building must be removed, or if your property will not be rebuilt in the same way, contact the Tax Administration office so we know about the permanent change.
  • Ask questions early. If you are unsure how storm damage might affect your future value, call or email us. We can explain how the process works for upcoming tax years.

If You Are Having Trouble Paying Your Tax Bill

We know that paying your tax bill may be difficult while you are also paying for repairs or temporary housing. If you are worried about being able to pay:

We Are Here to Help

The Orange County Tax Administration is committed to fairness, transparency, and respect. We recognize the emotional and financial hardship that comes from natural disasters, and we are here to support you as you recover.

If you have questions about your property value, your tax bill, or available relief programs, please contact us.

Orange County Tax Administration
228 S. Churton Street, Suite 200
P.O. Box 8181
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: 919-245-2100 (Option 2)
Email: tax@orangecountync.gov

If you need an interpreter or a disability-related accommodation, please tell us when you call or visit. We want all County services to be accessible to everyone.