FAQs

Q:  How much in City of Detroit taxes do I owe?

A:  Go to Room 136, Coleman Young Municipal Center, and request the tax bills for your property. The Detroit Treasury telephone number is 224-3560.                                                                         

Q: How much do I owe in Wayne County taxes?

A: For non-current year taxes, contact the Wayne County Treasurer, 400 Monroe, (313) 224-5990.  For the current year's City and County tax amounts, contact the City of Detroit's Treasury Division, Room 136, Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, Detroit, and request the tax bills for your property (the county portion is itemized). The Treasury Division's telephone number is (313) 224-3560.

Q:  I bought a piece of property from the City, which acquired that property through foreclosure. Can I get the lis pendens released?

A: Technically, a tax foreclosure lis pendens is merged into the foreclosure judgment and does not have to be removed. Removal of a lis pendens will be reviewed on an individual basis, and if appropriate, will be removed by the Tax Section of the Detroit Law Department. Also, Buildings & Safety Engineering Department demolition lis pendens must be reviewed and handled by B&SE.

Q:  I need a lis pendens removed. How do I do that?

A:  If it is for delinquent taxes, send a copy of lis pendens to the Law Department.  If it is for a dangerous structure, then go to the Buildings and Safety Engineering Department.


Q: I want to enter into a negotiated payment plan. How much do I need?

A:  We no longer offer payment plans for property taxes.

 
Q: I am the tenant in a property that is being foreclosed. Will I be evicted? Do I have to continue rent payments?

A: Occupants of such a property will receive all court documents in the mail. The City will not become the owner of the property until 60 days after a judgment is entered; and until then, the landlord is entitled to receive the rent. If the City becomes the owner of the property, the Planning and Development Department will contact the occupant within four months.  There will be no evictions without court approval and there will be plenty of discussion beforehand.


Q: I bought property from the City and there is a Certificate of Occupancy ("C of O") requirement in my deed. Can the provision be waived, so I can sell the property without first obtaining the " C of O "?

A: No.

Q: How do I file a claim?
 
A: Please provide all current and complete contact information. Detail, in writing, specifics of the incident - including the date, the time, the precise location of the incident, and the City of Detroit department that was involved. Communicate exactly what happened, and how it happened. Witness information, estimates, photos, copies of bills, proof of insurance, and proof of ownership should also be included when applicable. The section has claim forms on hand for your convenience.

When making a claim for an injury, you must sign a release for medical records.


Q: Where do I send my information?

A: City of Detroit Law Department, ATTN: CLAIMS, 660 Woodward, Suite 1650, Detroit, MI 48226

OR

The information may be faxed to (313) 224-5505.

Please write the claim number and the assigned investigator’s name on all correspondence, if known.


Q: Will I get paid or reimbursed?

A: This depends on the outcome of the investigation. If the City of Detroit is liable and the claimant is eligible to recover, you may receive payment.


Q: How long does the claim process take?

A: Sending complete and accurate information can expedite the process. The investigation also involves collecting information from other City departments, an informal interview/statement, taking photos when necessary, and reviewing all documentation. A decision regarding your claim will be made when the investigation is complete and all applicable records are received. There is an exception with claims involving the Michigan No-Fault Law.


Q: How long will it take for me to receive my check?

A: After the Claims Section receives your signed and notarized release, a check is then requested from the Finance Department for the specified amount. The process typically takes two to four weeks. The check will be mailed or available for pick up at our office on the day the Claims Section receives it. An exception is made for claims involving the Michigan No-Fault Law.