You will have a confidential, online discussion with BC Assessment about your concerns with the property assessment.

You will use the Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) website – which works a lot like a chat tool.  You can upload evidence documents, pictures or anything that supports your point of view.  Share all the relevant information at this stage.  The more you share, the more likely your appeal can be settled by mutual agreement.

NOTES:

• ODR is not simultaneous chat.  You will not be online at the same time as BC Assessment.  Both parties should respond to each other within 1 to 2 business days.
• Discussions and documents in ODR are confidential.  If you make an offer to settle, this offer cannot be used against you if the appeal is not resolved and goes to adjudication.
• See Nature of Online Discussions
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  Nature of Online Discussions

  All written discussions between the parties should occur in the Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) website (not in regular email). 
   
  Settlement discussions are confidential and cannot be used if the appeal continues to the adjudication stage.  This is to promote open and frank exchange of information and negotiation.

  ODR is a discussion to try and reach mutual agreement.  It is not formal adjudication or a hearing.  

  • ODR is NOT an opportunity for a party to cross examine the other party;
     
  • We do not require parties to justify each and every point they make with evidence;
     
  • No party has a burden of proof in an appeal before the Board.  This means each party must support their views rather than just criticizing the other party’s statements.

  You are not required to respond to every objection or complaint raised by the other party.  Some issues may not be relevant. 

  For example: Our Board cannot deal with how the first level of appeal or how BC Assessment treated you. We only deal with what is an accurate assessment.

  We encourage you to not hold back information.  Answering questions, clarifying your position and providing support will help you each agreement.  Productive discussion is about the right balance between being open and being reasonable.

  The Board facilitator may close the ODR discussion and schedule adjudication if:

  • It is unlikely you will reach agreement;
     
  • The parties are being rude or disrespectful; or
     
  • The parties are going beyond the purpose of ODR and turning the conversation into extensive cross-examination.

  Please email Steve Guthrie at office@paab.bc.ca, if you have questions on what is reasonable at this resolution stage.

  on how much detail is appropriate.