FAQ

The Home Improvement Exemption is an exemption which is automatically granted when you have made an improvement to your property, such as, a room addition, new garage or fireplace, finishing a basement, adding central air or have built a new deck or porch. The assessment increase attributable only to the new improvement is exempt for four years, with a maximum of 25,000 in assessed value. If the assessment increase exceeds 25,000 the balance of the assessment is subject to taxation.

For example, if you have built a deck and it is assessed for 4,500, for the next four years the property assessed value will be reduced by 4,500. However, if you have built a room addition and it's assessment is 37,000, for the next four years the property assessment will be reduced by only 25,000, the maximum exemption.

Once the new construction is complete a notice of assessment change will be sent. It will reflect the total assessment, including the full assessed value of the new improvement. Prior to calculating the tax bill, however, the exemption amount is removed, along with any other exemptions that apply.

What type of home improvement will not change my assessment?

New siding, roofing, replacement of a furnace or plumbing fixtures, and landscaping, for example, are considered normal maintenance and do not change the overall assessment. These types of repairs or replacements are not eligible for the Home Improvement Exemption.

I live in Downers Grove, why do I have to contact Lisle or York Township for assessment information?

Please check the Township boundaries on the map. Properties west of Woodward Avenue are assessed by Lisle Township, (630) 968-1183. Properties north of 39th Street are assessed by York Township, (630) 627-3354.

I have questions about my tax bill payment or late charges, who should I call?

Tax bill payment questions should be directed to the DuPage County Treasurer's office at (630) 407-5900. The Assessors Office cannot accept tax bill payment. They can be paid at the DuPage County Treasurers office at 421 North County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL 60187. Also, there are several local banks that accept payment. Call the County Treasurer for more information.

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