The Borough of Rockaway has begun its first borough-wide property reassessment in 22 years, and inspectors from Appraisal Systems, Inc. are now visiting homes across town as part of the process.
The Morris County Board of Taxation and the New Jersey Division of Taxation directed the reassessment to bring property values in line with the current market. Borough officials say current assessments reflect only about 67 percent of today’s market value. The new values will be based on each property’s estimated market value as of October 1, 2026, and will apply to the 2027 tax year.
The first step is an inspection of every property in the Borough, with representatives measuring and photographing the exterior of buildings and inspecting the interior. The first visit is unannounced and happens between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. If no one is home, the inspector leaves a card with a return date and a phone number to reschedule.
All representatives carry photo identification, and their names are registered with the Rockaway Borough Police Department and the Borough Clerk’s office. Residents should not let anyone into their home without proper identification.
Officials note that while most assessments are expected to rise, the tax rate will be adjusted downward, so the overall change in taxes paid should be minimal. Property owners will be notified by mail of their proposed values and will have a chance to question or contest them. Residents with questions can call Appraisal Systems, Inc. at 201-493-8530 or view the project details on the Appraisal Systems reassessment page.
