Property tax bills are a routine part of ownership for property owners—especially landlords and real estate investors. But sometimes, they contain more than just standard taxes. Hidden among line items, you might find fees and charges that are excessive, repetitive, or potentially unlawful. Knowing how to spot these charges is critical to protecting your financial interests and property rights.
Understand What Can Legally Be Charged
Property tax bills typically include standard elements like ad valorem taxes based on your property’s assessed value and fees for public services. However, municipalities sometimes add costs related to code enforcement, property maintenance, or administrative penalties. Some of these may not be legally enforceable—especially if applied without due process.
You can reference resources like your local assessor’s office or state property tax division to better understand what’s allowed.
Look for Vague or Repetitive Fees
Common examples of questionable charges include:
- Repeated lawn mowing or debris removal fees
- Unexplained “administrative” or “service” fees
- Code enforcement costs without a notice or citation
If a charge appears multiple times or is labeled vaguely, it may signal an issue worth investigating.
Compare Bills Across Properties
If you own more than one property—or know others in your area—compare your tax bills. Do similar properties receive similar charges? If your property is being singled out, this may suggest inconsistency or unfair enforcement, particularly in cities where code enforcement is used to generate revenue.
Request an Itemized Breakdown
You have a legal right to request a detailed explanation of your charges. Contact your city’s tax or finance department and ask for supporting documentation. In some cases, the charges may be improper if the municipality fails to provide adequate justification.
Keep Records and Watch for Patterns
Document everything: your tax bill, communication with the city, inspection notices, and photos of your property. If you notice patterns—especially in areas where revenue generation is tied to property enforcement—you may not be alone. Widespread issues like these can sometimes lead to class action litigation.
What to Do If You Suspect Unlawful Charges
Paying a property tax bill doesn’t always mean the charges are legitimate. In some cases, improper fees can be challenged—and if others are affected, legal action may be warranted.
If you believe your property tax bill includes unlawful or excessive charges, contact the Law Offices of Aaron D. Cox. Our team has extensive experience holding municipalities accountable for overreach through real property class action lawsuits. We’re here to help you protect your rights and your investment.