Top 5 Home Improvements That Can Raise Your Property Taxes on Long Island

Top 5 Home Improvements That Can Raise Your Property Taxes on Long Island

 Updating your home can boost comfort, curb appeal, and resale value—but on Long Island, certain renovations can also lead to higher property taxes. Before starting a major project, it’s important to understand how the county assesses value and which upgrades may trigger a reassessment.

Here are the top five home improvements that can increase property taxes for Long Island homeowners. 

1. Home Extensions & Additions

 Adding square footage—such as a new bedroom, expanded kitchen, larger living room, or second-story addition—almost always raises your home’s assessed value.
More livable space = higher home value = higher taxes.

Why:

Local assessors typically look at the size and usability of your home. Increasing total square footage makes the home more valuable compared to similar properties. 

2. Finished Basements

 While unfinished basements don’t count fully toward assessed value, a finished basement adds functional space that may be considered in the assessment. 

Examples of taxable improvements:

  • Adding bathrooms
     
  • Building a home office
     
  • Creating a media room or gym
     
  • Installing egress windows
     

Even if the basement isn’t included in the official square footage, the added features can still influence taxes.

3. Swimming Pools

A new in-ground pool almost always increases property taxes on Long Island.
Above-ground pools may have less impact, but in-ground installations require permits and are viewed as luxury additions.

Why:

Pools increase market value and add to the home’s amenities, which can make your assessment jump.

4. Outdoor Structures: Decks & Patios

 Outdoor living has become a major selling point. When you add a deck, patio, or large porch, assessors often consider it an upgrade. 

Factors that influence the tax increase:

  • Size of the structure
     
  • Materials (e.g., composite vs pressure-treated)
     
  • Whether it's attached or detached
     
  • Additional features like railings or roofing
     

5. Major Kitchen or Bathroom Renovations

 Cosmetic updates typically don’t increase taxes—but high-end, structural remodels might. 

Renovations that can trigger reassessment:

  • Moving plumbing or walls
     
  • Expanding the size of the room
     
  • Upgrading to premium fixtures and finishes
     

If the remodel substantially increases your home’s market value, the county may adjust your taxes.

Final Thoughts

 Before starting any renovation, it’s wise to consider home value vs taxes. Even improvements that make your home more enjoyable can increase your yearly tax bill.

If your property taxes seem too high after remodeling—or you feel your home is over-assessed—P.T.R.C., Inc. can help. Our team has over 30 years of experience filing successful grievances for Long Island homeowners.

Contact P.T.R.C., Inc. to review your property and find out if you qualify for a tax reduction. 

 


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