Dublin homeowners whose properties took a beating from the Aug. 10-11 storms can apply for a temporary reduction in their assessed property value, potentially lowering their tax bill until repairs are finished.

Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano announced the program on Aug. 11, after storms brought roughly 80 mph wind gusts and several inches of rain across the county. The National Weather Service issued multiple severe thunderstorm and flood warnings covering Dublin during the two-day event, which knocked out power for about 83,000 Franklin County customers, according to NBC4.

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

How it works

Under Ohio Revised Code Section 319.38, county auditors can reduce the assessed value of damaged or destroyed property. Because the storms hit during the third calendar quarter (July through September), the law allows a deduction of up to 50% of the damage amount from a property's valuation. Damage under $100 does not qualify.

The reduction stays in place until the property is restored, at which point the assessed value returns to its prior level.

In Dublin, where the median annual property tax bill runs $12,090 on a median home price of $650,000, even a partial reduction in assessed value could mean meaningful savings for homeowners facing expensive repairs.

How to apply

Property owners can file online or submit a printed form through the Franklin County Auditor's Damaged and Destroyed Property page. Photos, repair estimates or insurance claim documents are helpful but not required. No application deadline is stated in the auditor's announcement.

The auditor's office can also proactively identify damaged properties. Homeowners whose properties are flagged will receive a letter notifying them of the proposed adjustment.

Residents with questions can call the Franklin County Auditor's Office at 614-525-4663.

Separate from reassessment challenge

This storm-damage program is distinct from the county's ongoing informal review process for the 2026 reassessment, which raised residential values an average of 10%. As we reported Aug. 7, homeowners have until Sept. 5 to challenge those new valuations. Dublin residents may be eligible for both programs independently.