News Release Header
For Immediate Release:
July 12, 2021
Media Contact:
Eileen Hernandez
[email protected]
305-375-4089

Miami-Dade County Office of the Property Appraiser’s Assessment of Champlain Towers South


Miami-Dade County, FL – The Office of the Property Appraiser has been diligently working to properly assess the Champlain Towers South after the devastating collapse on June 24. Upon reviewing the data, reports, and documentation released, we have concluded that property owners who resided at the Champlain Towers South are entitled to a reassessment that more accurately reflects the condition of the property as of January 1. 

Our Office has also been working closely with Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Department of Revenue on finding solutions to better assist those property owners who have been impacted by the aftermath of the collapse. On Friday, July 9, 2021, Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 21-160 suspending the operation of the following statutes and their associated deadlines or requirements for all property owners in Champlain Towers South, whose properties were destroyed or rendered uninhabitable following the collapse. While the order does not eliminate property taxes, it does lift the following legal requirements:

“I believe this executive order will provide some relief to those property owners affected by the unprecedented tragedy that occurred in Surfside, and I intend to provide the maximum relief permissible by law,” says Property Appraiser Garcia, “However, as I continue to work with the Florida  Legislature for a more comprehensive solution to address property tax concerns, I will also be asking legislators to consider a provision allowing surviving homeowners with the Homestead Exemption to transfer (also known as “port”) their Save-Our-Homes benefit from their 2020 assessment prior to the catastrophe. This would allow the Champlain Towers South homeowners to maximize their tax benefits in the future as well.” 

Property Appraiser Garcia adds, “If you believe your property has structural defects or believe your property value may be incorrect, I urge you to please provide my office with data, reports or documents supporting such claims.”

Property owners who may have questions regarding property value or property tax exemption benefits may contact our Office at 305-375-4712 or [email protected].