In our role as the contracted auditor for the State of Colorado, SMDA conducts the annual property assessment audit study to ensure fair, consistent, and lawful property valuation across the state for tax purposes.
Each year, Colorado is required by the Colorado Constitution and state statute to commission a property assessment study to verify that property in the state is being valued correctly for tax purposes. The results of the audit help maintain fairness, transparency, and accountability in the property tax system. The final report is submitted to the Colorado General Assembly and the State Board of Equalization by statute. You can read more about the audit on the Colorado Division of Property Taxation website.
As the auditor contracted by the State, SMDA is responsible for designing and executing the Colorado assessment audit. Our role includes selecting and quantifying property samples, comparing assessed values to market benchmarks, validating sales data, analyzing assessment levels, and producing findings at both state and county levels.
Our methodology is rooted in rigorous statistical sampling, sales verification, and adherence to statutory standards. We apply quality assurance measures throughout data collection, review, and analysis stages to ensure accuracy, reliability, and defensibility.
We maintain full transparency in our procedures and document our assumptions, adjustments, and validation steps. We also produce county-level reports to promote local accountability and insight.
SMDA is built on a foundation of experience in data science, software engineering, and property assessment. Our multidisciplinary team brings together expertise from across industries to build simple solutions to complex problems.
If you’re interested in viewing detailed reports, county-specific results, or learning more about our audit approach, we're happy to assist.