Summit County property owners affected by the recent storm can now apply for real estate tax relief through the county Fiscal Office. Fiscal Officer Kristen M. Scalise has announced that victims who sustained property damage can file for valuation deductions that could significantly reduce their 2026 tax bills.
The tax relief comes through an Application for Valuation Deduction for Destroyed or Damaged Property (Form DTE 26), available under Ohio Revised Code §319.38. The filing deadline for storm-damaged property is December 31, 2025, though Scalise urges affected residents to submit applications as soon as possible.
Property owners can download Form DTE 26 from the county website at http://fiscaloffice.summitoh.net by clicking the “Damaged Property” link under the Real Estate and Appraisal column. Completed forms should be mailed to the Summit County Fiscal Office at 175 S. Main Street, Room 304, Akron, OH 44308. Those without computer access can call (330) 643-2704 to request a form by mail.
Since the storm occurred in May, qualifying property owners will receive a 75% reduction in value of the damaged portion. For example, a property appraised at $100,000 that sustained $10,000 in damage would receive a $7,500 reduction, resulting in a new appraised value of $92,500 for tax year 2025.
Real estate taxes are billed one year in arrears, so the reduction will apply to tax year 2025, collection year 2026.
Once applications are filed, the Appraisal Department will conduct inspections to determine damage amounts. However, damage to trees, landscaping, fencing, and personal items is excluded on residential properties. The Fiscal Office will track repairs based on applications received and building permits filed from affected townships and cities.
For more information, property owners can contact the Summit County Fiscal Office at (330) 643-2704.
