We are pleased to announce that the Barnwell County Assessor's Office will be conducting the quadrennial reassessment that was implemented for 2025. This reassessment is a crucial process that ensures fair and accurate property valuations throughout our county.

FAQ's / Understanding the Quadrennial Reassessment: 

What is the Quadrennial Reassessment?

The quadrennial reassessment is a comprehensive review and evaluation of property values that occurs every four years and is implemented in the 5th year. Our last one took place in 2020 and has been the basis for your property’s valuation since then. Our primary aim is to determine the current market value of properties within Barnwell County. This valuation serves as the basis for calculating property taxes.

Why is it Important?

Ensuring fairness and accuracy in property valuations is essential for equitable taxation. The reassessment process helps maintain consistency in property values, reflecting changes in the local real estate market. It ensures that property taxes are distributed fairly based on updated property values.

What Can You Expect?

Our team of licensed appraisers conduct thorough evaluations of properties across the county. This may include physical inspections, data collection, and analysis of recent sales and market trends to determine property values.

How Will This Affect You?

Property owners may receive notices detailing the assessed value of their properties if their overall value increases by more than $1,000. It's crucial to review these notices carefully. If you believe there are discrepancies or have questions about the assessment, our office is here to assist you.

Why is Current Fair Market Value So Important?

The market value of property will continue to change. Unfortunately, property values do not all change at the same rate; some increase or decrease at a faster rate due to location, desirability of the neighborhood or property age and physical condition, etc. The key word in the reassessment program is accuracy. Taxes cannot be levied fairly unless the true value of each property is known. Correct assessments are not possible unless correct appraisals of property are made considering present value, not what it was worth in past years.

SC State Law Section 12-43-217 Quadrennial Reassessment

Once every fifth year each County or the State shall appraise and equalize those properties under its jurisdiction. A County by ordinance may postpone for not more than property tax year the implementation of revised values resulting from the equalization program. Click here to see the SC Code of Laws Section 12-43.

SC State Law Section 12-37-3140

Any increase in the fair market value of real property attributable to the periodic County wide appraisal and equalization program implemented pursuant to Section 12-43-217 is limited to fifteen percent within a five year period to the otherwise applicable value. 

This limit does not apply to the fair market value of additions or improvements to real property in the year those additions or improvements are first subject to property tax.

This limit does not apply to the fair market value of real property when an assessable transfer of interest occurred in the year that the transfer value is first subject to tax. Click here to see the SC Code of Laws Section 12-37.

SC State Law Section 12-37-3130 Assessable Transfer of Interest

Assessable transfer of interest means a transfer of an existing interest in real property that subjects the real property to appraisal. For purposes of this definition, an existing interest in real property includes life estate interest. Click here to see the SC Code of Laws Section 12-37.

Will My Taxes Increase In A Reassessment Year?

Your taxes may change, some will stay the same, and some will pay more taxes. Reassessment is not intended to raise taxes, but to distribute them more fairly. Because of the 5-year lapse since the last reassessment, property values are likely to increase in value.  The countywide reassessment program is scheduled to be updated every five years. The value will remain as is until the next general reappraisal unless: Construction activity has taken place, there has been an assessable transfer of interest (a sale of the property), or changes are made by the Assessor as required by law. 

Values are calculated using a Computer Assisted Mass Appraisal System, or “CAMA”

The Barnwell County Assessor’s Office maintains a database of physical characteristics for approximately 19,000 properties within Barnwell County. The data includes information such as heated square footage, garages, decks, pools, type and quality of construction, land area, water features, and several other attributes required for the mass appraisal process. Properties are then grouped into an appraisal model based on similar market characteristics.

Licensed appraisers determine land values for each of the appraisal models based on analysis of vacant and improved property sales. Structural improvements to the land are valued using a market sales modified Marshall & Swift cost service. The valuations produced for each appraisal model are tested for accuracy using actual market sales. After testing, the result of the mass appraisal model for Barnwell County is then measured against statistical standards.

If a model fails the required standards, further review and refinements are necessary before acceptance. Commercial properties may be evaluated on rental income streams, operating expenses, and what kind of investment return can be reasonably expected. After the valuation processes and testing, the reappraisal results must be submitted to the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) for further statistical testing and State approval. The Barnwell County Assessor is then notified of the approval and program implementation to the taxpayer.

Still have questions? Get in Touch with Us!

For any inquiries, concerns, or additional information regarding the quadrennial reassessment for 2025, please contact the Barnwell County Assessor's Office. We are here to serve and support you.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we work together to maintain fairness and accuracy in property valuations.