Owners of properties that suffered economic loss as a result of Government lockdown orders during 2020 should consider making an application for a rebate of a portion of their property taxes. Whether the rebate will be granted I believe is quite unlikely, at least in the first instance. But given the unprecedented nature of the Pandemic, I anticipate that the question of tax rebates for properties harmed by lockdown orders could eventually be decided in the courts.
My message today is that only those property owners who make a valid application to the municipality no later than February 28, 2021 will be entitled to any rebate in the event of a favorable court ruling.
So for property owners and managers, particularly of commercial retail, hospitality or office buildings that were subject to lockdown orders last year, you need to act quickly. Meeting the February 28 filing deadline is your insurance policy for obtaining a property tax rebate in the event of a favorable court decision. Any owner or manager wishing to pursue this matter or wishing further information should contact me as soon as possible!
I can be reached at mss@steinberglaw.ca or call me at 416.557.7781