Support and guidance for residents: property tax relief, contractor scam awareness, insurance claims

Media contact: Jennifer Ciaccia, Cuyahoga County, (216) 250-5863 | jciaccia@cuyahogacounty.us

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – Due to severe weather on Tuesday, August 6, many residents across Cuyahoga County and Northeast Ohio saw damage to their homes, yards and other property. The Cuyahoga County Office of Emergency Management continues to work with the State of Ohio Emergency Management Agency to assess damages and provide assistance to communities.

Real Estate tax relief available to victims of storms

If your property was damaged in the August storms, you can apply for a reduction in value and property tax assistance. The Cuyahoga County Fiscal Office provides property owners the ability to file an Application for Valuation of Damaged or Destroyed Property. The deadline to apply is December 31^st. Learn more and apply here.

Avoid home repair scams in the wake of storms

The Cuyahoga County Department of Consumer Affairs urges homeowners to avoid home repair scams in the wake of damaging storms.

Be aware that fly-by-night repair companies often go door-to-door after storms. Do not sign contracts for repairs until you fully read the contract and take time to check out the company’s reputation.

To find a reputable home repair company:

• Ask your insurer for recommendations when you file an insurance claim. Or ask neighbors who’ve done similar work in the past for recommendations.
• Always research how a company has treated other customers. Read Better Business Bureau ratings and reviews at bbb.org. Or find reviews by searching a company’s name online with words like “scam” or “complaint.”

Know that contractors who solicit you at your home must provide you with a written three-day “right to cancel” that lets you cancel without penalty.

Find detailed tips for hiring a contractor from Consumer Affairs.

Read about homeowner claims in Ohio Department of Insurance’s Severe Weather Toolkit.

File complaints against utilities with the Public Utilities Commission at puco.ohio.gov or 800-686-7826.

Need help? Reach the Cuyahoga County Department of Consumer Affairs at 216-443-7035.

Evaluating damage to your property and insurance claims

Do not assess your property until it is safe to do so. Watch for downed powerlines that may be tangled in with tree limbs. Continue to report any downed power lines to your municipality and utility provider. Call your insurance company as soon as possible. Closely inspect property for damage and photograph any damage and losses as this will assist in settling claims.

Many policies cover expenses related to damages up to a stated amount. Ensure everything is considered in your claim and back-up claims with written estimates. To learn more, visit insurance.ohio.gov.

Sign up for ReadyNotify

Stay prepared and informed of emergencies by signing up for ReadyNotify, Cuyahoga County’s emergency notification system. The ReadyNotify system provides notifications for emergency events, weather alerts, and other information. Additional information and tips about staying safe in emergencies can be found at Ready.gov.