BC Assessment is asking people to reach out by the end of this month if they have been impacted by the 2021 wildfire season.

Deputy Assessor Tracy Shymko says they want to make sure they has the correct data as BC Assessment works on 2022 property assessments.

“We’re looking to see what type of damage has been done and removing any inventory where inventory no longer exists and connecting with property owners in any way possible to make sure we have what is actually physically there on the property,” she told NL News.

“October 31 is our physical condition and permitted use date, so that is an important date for us to know at what condition the property is at. So that is what we are doing right now and then once we have the inventory correct, then we work on the valuation piece.”

Shymko says BC Assessment has mailed out self-reporting forms to people whose properties were destroyed or damaged by wildfires this summer. However, she says they’re reaching out publicly as well as some people may not have easy access to their mail.

“Affected property owners are encouraged to contact us to report any damage or loss, so that we can ensure we have an accurate assessment of your property which could impact changes to your 2022 property taxes,” she added.

Shymko says people can report the condition of their properties to BC Assessment either online or toll-free by phone at 1-866-valueBC (1-866-825-8322).

“When we finalize the roll is the beginning of December so that is your 2022 property assessment that comes in the mail in January. We do have the ability to make corrections through January but if we can have the right inventory on the completed roll that would be the best case scenario,” Shymko said.

As per the Assessment Act, 2022 property assessments in British Columbia are based on their market values as of July 1, 2021 and their physical condition and actual use as of October 31, 2021.