For the purpose of taxation, the first $15,000 in assessor's
full and true value of improvements for each dwelling unit primarily
and directly affected by home improvement in any single- or multiple-dwelling
property more than 20 years old, shall not increase the value of such
property for a period of five years, notwithstanding that the value
of the dwelling to which such improvements are made has increased
thereby.
In no event, however, shall the assessment during that period be
less than the assessment thereof existing immediately prior to such
home improvements unless there shall be damage to the dwelling through
action of the elements sufficient to warrant a reduction.
The above amounts up to $15,000 may be deducted from the amount determined
by the assessor on October 1 of any year following the determination
of the completion of the improvements and shall continue to be treated
as such for each of the five tax years subsequent to the original
determination by the assessor.
Additional improvements completed during a period in which the improved
property is subject to the previously granted exemption in an amount
less than the maximum deduction permissible shall be qualified for
additional deduction privileges under terms and conditions, however,
that in no tax year shall total deduction for any single property
exceed $15,000.
Any person or entity desiring to seek the exemption to the above
shall file a written application with the Tax Assessor of Berlin Township
pursuant to the directions of N.J.S.A. 40A:21-9.