CoJ issues valuation objection letters

The valuation roll was open for public inspection and objection from February 20, 2013, to May 3, 2013.

Valuation services received over 88 000 objections. The outcome of the municipal valuer decisions will be posted to objectors in batches.

Mr Kgamanyane Maphologela, a CoJ spokesperson, said the number of objections received determines how long the objection process lasts. Every objection is an intense one-on-one process.

“The nature of the process is one that is lengthy. We aim to finalise all outcome letters by the end of March 2014. As the objection outcome letters roll out, property owners who are unhappy about the results still have recourse through the Valuations Appeal process,” said Mr Maphologela. Building plans, pictometary, recorded footage, actual site visits and evidence provided by the objector can be used to review objections.

The Municipal Property Rates Act (MPRA) states that if an adjustment in the valuation of a property affects the amount due for rates payable on that property, the municipal manager must calculate the amount actually paid on the property since the effective date.

The municipal manager must also calculate the amount payable in terms of the adjustment on the property since the effective date and recover from, or repay to, the person liable for the payment of the rate the difference plus interest at a prescribed rate.

After the completion of the objection process, the account will be adjusted accordingly. If objections are successful, the amount overpaid will be credited.

Appeal

If you do not agree with the decision of the municipal valuer to your objection, you need to appeal against the municipal valuer’s decision at Metro Centre on the prescribed appeal form.

The Metro Centre is located at 158 Civic Boulevard in Braamfontein. Visit the A Block and go to the fourth floor.

All supporting documents or evidence must be submitted with your appeal form.

You can only appeal the municipal valuer’s decision if an objection was lodged against the general valuation roll within the prescribed period.

The MPRA states that if the municipal valuer changes the value of a property that was objected to by more than 10 percent upwards or downwards, the appeal board must review the objection and confirm, amend or revoke the decision.

If you did not appeal the decision of the municipal valuer and your property is reviewed by the valuation appeal board and they amend the property valuation, your only recourse will be an escalation to a higher court which will be for your own account.

The appeal board is an independent body appointed by the MEC for Local Government.

The appeal board is not a court of law and you do not need to bring a lawyer unless you wish to do so. You may also bring any other expert to assist you during your appeal hearing. However, this will be for your own account.

The valuation appeal board will consist of a chairperson with legal qualifications and experience in the administration of justice. The remaining members will be made up of members with knowledge of or experience in the valuation of property. At least one must be a professional valuer registered in terms of the Property Valuers Profession Act 47 of 2000.

Mr Maphologela thanked residents for their patience.