Media Alert: Valuation Objection Period Closing Next Week

The City of Cape Town has expressed its satisfaction with the way the latest property valuations process has preceded.

"We have to date received fifteen thousand (15 000) objections compared to the previous general valuation when we received over forty thousand (40 000) objections after a two month period," said Christopher Gavor, Director of the City's Valuations Office. "It shows that our systems have improved since the last general valuation".

"We have committed to finalising the majority of the objections by the end of December 2010," said Gavor.

A general valuation is conducted at least once every three (3) to four (4) years to ensure that the rates charged on residential and non-residential (agricultural and public service infrastructure) properties are fair and up-to-date. It is necessary to redo valuations because property values change within neighbourhoods and in relation to other neighbourhoods over time. This revaluation aims to establish a fair and equitable rates base for the next three (3) to four (4) years. The valuation is based on property values as on 01 July 2009.

The Valuations Office's eighteen (18) public inspection centres across the city that have been in operation since late in February will close on 30 April 2010.

"Anyone who has not yet received a valuations notice must urgently contact the City's call centre on 0860 103 089, before the deadline next week," said Gavor. "You cannot use the fact that you have not received a valuations notice as an excuse for objecting after the cut-off date."

Ratepayers must please keep in mind that Tuesday 27 April is a public holiday and the public inspection centres will be closed on this day.

Ratepayers can visit the Property Valuation website, where they will find a "rates calculator" or call 0860 103 089 for more information.

Issued by:
Communication Department
City of Cape Town