Hilliard homeowners whose properties took a beating from the Aug. 10–11 severe storms could see a temporary cut in their real estate tax bills.

Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano announced Aug. 11 that property owners with storm-damaged homes or structures may apply for a temporary reduction in assessed value. Under Ohio law, county auditors can lower valuations on damaged or destroyed properties, and the reduction stays in place until repairs are complete.

The storms brought wind gusts of around 80 mph and several inches of rain across Franklin County, triggering multiple National Weather Service severe thunderstorm and flood warnings. Hilliard was among the hardest-hit communities, with reports of downed trees, damaged vehicles and house damage across the area. As we reported Aug. 11, the storms left thousands without power in Franklin County.

"If your property was damaged, our office wants you to know there may be relief available," Stinziano said in the announcement. "We encourage property owners to file for a temporary reduction in value if they believe their property qualifies."

How to apply

Property owners can file online or submit a printed form through the Auditor's office. The application and instructions are available on the Auditor's website.

Supporting materials such as photos of the damage, repair estimates or insurance claim information can strengthen an application. They are not required to file.

No deadline announced

The Auditor's office did not specify a deadline for applications. Homeowners who believe their property qualifies should contact the office for timing guidance.

Auditor may act without an application

Stinziano's office also has authority to proactively identify damaged properties and reduce their values without a homeowner filing. In those cases, the property owner will receive a letter notifying them of the proposed adjustment.

The storm-damage relief is separate from the ongoing triennial property value review, which allows Hilliard homeowners to challenge their 2026 assessed values before Sept. 5. The triennial update brought an average 11% residential value increase for Hilliard City School District properties, according to the county's 2026 reappraisal, making the storm-damage relief especially relevant for homeowners already facing higher assessments who now have structural damage on top of that.