Understanding annual Assessment Requests for Information (ARFI)
Each year, the Town of Cochrane sends Assessment Requests for Information (ARFI) to approximately 20% of residential property owners.
Properties are selected by neighbourhood as part of a 5-year rotation cycle. This means most properties receive a request about once every five years.
If you received a letter this year, it simply means your neighbourhood is part of this year’s review.
It does not mean:
- Your assessment is incorrect
- Your property taxes are automatically increasing
- There is a problem with your property
Why the Town of Cochrane sends out these requests
Property assessments must reflect:
- Current property characteristics
- Accurate building details
- Renovations, additions, demolitions, or changes in use
To keep property records accurate and up to date, we conduct a neighbourhood-based review each year. By reviewing approximately 20% of properties annually, we are able to verify all residential properties over a 5-year cycle.
This process helps us:
- Ensure assessments are fair and equitable
- Maintain consistent and accurate property data
- Comply with provincial assessment legislation
- Reduce the need for corrections or complaints later
Why a 5-year neighbourhood cycle?
Rather than contacting every property owner every year, we review properties by neighbourhood over a 5-year period. This approach:
- Spreads the review process evenly across the community
- Minimizes inconvenience
- Ensures all areas are reviewed regularly
- Keeps information current without overburdening residents
If you do not receive a request this year, your neighbourhood may be scheduled in a future year.
What information are we asking for?
The request may ask you to confirm details such as:
- House style
- Dwelling or unit area
- Finished basement area
- Renovations or additions
- Structural features
- Garage details
- Decks, fireplaces, and outbuildings
How is this information used?
The information you provide is used strictly for:
- Verifying property details
- Ensuring assessment accuracy and fairness
All information is collected and handled in accordance with applicable privacy legislation.
Responding to an Assessment Request for Information
Is responding mandatory?
Yes. Under provincial legislation, property owners are required to provide requested assessment information.
Providing complete and accurate information helps ensure:
- Your property is assessed fairly
- Your assessment reflects accurate details
- Issues are addressed before assessment notices are mailed
Failure to respond may result in:
- An estimated assessment based on available information
- Possible limitations on your ability to appeal your assessment
How to respond
You can respond by:
- Completing the enclosed form
- Submitting online (if available)
- Returning the form by mail or email
Please respond by the deadline indicated in your letter.
Questions?
Our Assessment team is here to help.
If you have questions about:
- Why your property was selected
- How the 5-year review cycle works
- What information is being requested
- How to complete the form
Please contact the Town of Cochrane Assessment Department.
Non-residential properties will receive an Annual Request for Income and Expense information annually.