Q: Will my property taxes increase if I add heat to a previously unconditioned outbuilding on my property?
A: Massachusetts towns assess value annually. They calculate property values based on the market activity as well as certain property-specific attributes such as location, size, construction quality, style, and condition. These include the status of outbuildings. Factors may include the usefulness of the outbuilding with heat as opposed to unheated, whether, as a result of installation of heating, it is usable for residential or commercial purposes, etc. I suggest you call the tax assessor in your town and ask.
A: They might well increase if you improve the building, but you'd need to not only contact the tax assessor but also make sure you have a permit from the town to make such changes, if necessary. More details are necessary to provide a professional analysis of your issue. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney such as myself. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website, www.AliEsq.com. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, WA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.
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