Bill > SB678

This bill creates a new process for property owners to request a reappraisal of their property if it is completely destroyed or at least 15% damaged by an accidental fire. Under the proposed law, property owners can request a reappraisal from the chief appraiser within 180 days of the fire, and the chief appraiser must reappraise the property, with an exception for properties that already qualify for a fire-related exemption. The bill defines "qualified property" to include real property and manufactured homes used as dwellings. The comptroller is required to develop guidelines for the reappraisal process by January 1, 2026, which will help determine how to evaluate the property's value and apply any existing exemptions or appraisal limitations. The tax calculation for reappraised properties will be prorated based on the number of days before and after the fire, and if a tax bill has already been issued, the assessor must recalculate and either mail a corrected bill or provide a refund. The law will only apply to fires occurring on or after January 1, 2026, and will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if it does not.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB678