For most commercial property owners, discovering a building code violation triggers concerns about repairs, potential fines, or tenant complaints. But what if that same violation could actually help lower your property taxes?

Under the right circumstances, unresolved code violations can be a strong argument for a reduced property tax assessment. If your building is in less-than-perfect condition, there’s a good chance it’s worth less than what the assessor says. And that means you could be paying more in taxes than you should be.

Why Code Violations Matter to Your Assessment

In New York, property tax assessments are supposed to reflect a property’s fair market value. But assessors don’t always account for every detail, especially when it comes to the physical condition of the building. Structural issues, safety hazards, or other code violations can significantly impact a property’s value — especially when they affect rentability or require expensive remediation.

That’s where an unexpected opportunity lies for commercial owners. If your property has active code violations or known conditions that would make a buyer or tenant think twice, those issues can be used to support a lower valuation — and, in turn, a lower property tax bill.

But Here’s the Catch…

Most assessors won’t automatically factor in those issues unless you bring them to the table. That means property owners need to actively present this information during the grievance process. And while that might sound time-consuming, it doesn’t have to be.

When you work with an expert tax grievance firm like Realty Tax Challenge, we know how to gather the right documentation, frame the impact of these issues, and make a compelling case on your behalf. We handle the paperwork, the evidence, and the back-and-forth — so you don’t have to.

What Counts as a “Value-Impacting” Violation?

Not every code violation will move the needle, but many do — especially if they affect income, occupancy, or future investment.

Some examples include:

• Outstanding DOB or municipal violations
• Structural or safety hazards
• Accessibility or egress issues
• Environmental problems (e.g., asbestos, mold, oil tanks)
• Major deferred maintenance that requires capital improvements

If these issues make it harder to lease space, keep tenants, or refinance the property, they can significantly reduce market value. And that’s something assessors must consider.

How the Process Works

In NY State, commercial property owners have the right to challenge their assessments. The formal grievance process allows you to present evidence and request a reduction — and that’s where leveraging code violations can actually help you save on property taxes.

Here’s what’s typically needed to make the case:

• Proof of the issue — violation notices, photos, inspection reports
• Estimates or records showing the cost of repairs or the financial impact
• Support for valuation adjustments based on comparable market data

It can feel technical — that’s why it makes sense to work with property tax experts who can handle the details, so you don’t have to. We already know what information assessors will find persuasive, and we tailor every case to highlight the facts that matter most.

Why This Matters More Now Than Ever

When assessments are inaccurate — whether due to overlooked property conditions or administrative errors — it’s the property owner who ends up paying the price. That’s why it’s critical to review your assessment and challenge it when necessary, especially if your building has unresolved issues that affect its value.

With municipalities across New York facing tight budgets and increased enforcement, making sure your property is assessed fairly isn’t just a good idea — it’s essential to protecting your bottom line. If your building has condition issues or active code violations, don’t just see them as liabilities. They can actually work in your favor when it comes to your tax bill.

We Make the Case — So You Don’t Have To

At Realty Tax Challenge, we know how to turn overlooked property issues into tax savings. Code violations, deferred maintenance, and structural concerns don’t just impact your operations — they directly affect what your property is truly worth. Our team builds strategic, evidence-backed grievance cases that reflect your property’s true market value, not just what’s on paper.

Assessors often miss what matters. We make sure commercial owners pay only what they owe — not a penny more. We’ve helped thousands of commercial property owners across NY State significantly lower their tax bills through smart, targeted challenges.

If your building has problems, don’t let your tax bill pretend it doesn’t. Contact us today to find out how much you could be saving.