Does a Screened-In Porch Increase Property Taxes? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you're thinking about adding a screened-in porch or screen enclosure to your home, you're probably excited about creating a comfortable, bug-free space to relax. But there’s one common concern that stops many homeowners in their tracks: “Will a screened-in porch increase my property taxes?” The short answer is: It can — but not always significantly. In this post, Lafferty Aluminum & Screening will break down how property taxes are assessed, what factors matter most, and how additions like screened-in porches and screen enclosures could affect your bill. Plus, we’ll share tips to help reduce any potential tax increase.

Understanding Property Tax Assessments

Before addressing the question at hand, it’s important to understand how property taxes are assessed, especially here in Florida. Property taxes are levied by local governments based on the assessed value of a property. The assessed value is typically determined by the county property appraiser, who considers various factors, including:

• The size, location, and condition of the property
• Any recent improvements or additions
• Local market conditions
• Comparable home sales in your area

In Florida, all additions, including screened-in porches and permanent screen enclosures, are evaluated as potential value-added improvements, which can lead to higher assessed values.

1. Property Value

The assessed value of a property is a key determinant of property taxes. Tax appraisers look at recent sale prices in your area, square footage, and the overall condition of your home. Adding a usable space, even if it’s not climate-controlled, may increase your home's value, particularly in Florida’s warm climate where outdoor living is highly desirable.

2. Home Improvements

In Florida, any permitted structural improvement, including a screened-in porch, must be reported to the local building department. Once a permit is issued, your property will likely be flagged for reassessment. The improvement is then added to your home's record, which may raise its assessed value. Florida law (Section 193.011, Florida Statutes) requires appraisers to consider improvements that enhance real property when calculating just value.

The size, type, and cost of the improvement matter. For example, a basic aluminum frame screen room will likely add less value (and therefore less tax impact) than a fully roofed and finished lanai with tile flooring and lighting.

3. Local Tax Rates

Florida’s property tax system is county-based, meaning tax rates can vary significantly between areas. These rates (called millage rates) are set annually based on local government budgets. So, even a small change in your home’s value could affect your bill more in some counties than others.

4. Market Conditions

If the real estate market is strong — as has often been the case in Florida — improvements like screen enclosures can contribute to a noticeable increase in market value and therefore a higher tax assessment. In slower markets, the increase might be less dramatic.

5. Tax Exemptions and Deductions

Florida homeowners may benefit from the Homestead Exemption, which reduces the taxable value of a primary residence by up to $50,000. However, it doesn’t prevent your assessed value from increasing if you improve your property. Additionally, Florida’s Save Our Homes cap limits annual assessment increases to 3% for homesteaded properties — but new improvements like porches are excluded from this cap and can be assessed immediately at full value.

Debunking the Myth

Let’s return to the main question: Does a screened-in porch increase property taxes?

The answer is not a simple yes or no. While a screened-in porch or screen enclosure may increase your home’s assessed value, the extent of that increase depends on:

1. Cost of the Addition

The higher the cost, the more value you're likely adding to your home. A simple, open-air porch may only raise your assessment slightly, while a roofed lanai with custom finishes may result in a larger increase. In Florida, cost is often used by appraisers to help estimate market value of improvements.

2. Local Tax Laws and Regulations

Each Florida county has its own appraisal office with slightly different practices. For example, in Brevard County, the Property Appraiser’s Office reassesses your home’s value when you add permanent structures like a screened-in porch. Permitted improvements, such as a screen enclosure, are typically included in the assessed value. The appraiser uses permit records and aerial imagery to track new additions, so make sure all permits are pulled to ensure an accurate assessment and avoid future issues.

3. Market Conditions

Again, Florida’s hot real estate market often means that any functional improvement increases value, especially usable outdoor space, which is in high demand due to the climate.

4. Tax Exemptions

As mentioned above, while exemptions can reduce taxable value, new additions are often assessed at full market value regardless of exemptions.

Strategies for Minimizing Property Tax Increases

While a screened-in porch may result in a modest increase in property taxes, there are several strategies Florida homeowners can use to minimize the impact:

1. Consider the Cost-Benefit Ratio

Before starting your project, weigh the potential increase in taxes against the benefits. In Florida, a screened porch adds year-round comfort, increases resale value, and may even help your home sell faster. For many homeowners, the lifestyle upgrade far outweighs a small bump in taxes.

2. Consult with a Tax Professional

Since each county can assess improvements differently, speak with a Florida-based real estate professional or property tax consultant who knows local laws. They can give you an idea of what to expect once your improvement is complete.

3. Obtain Permits and Documentation

Always pull the necessary permits when building a screened-in porch or enclosure. Doing so keeps your home compliant with local building codes and ensures accurate, fair assessment. Lack of a permit could delay your closing if you decide to sell or result in back-assessments.

4. Appeal Your Assessment

If you believe your new tax assessment is too high, you have the right to file an appeal with your county’s Value Adjustment Board. Documentation like appraisals, photos, and examples of similar homes in your area can support your case.

Final Thoughts

While adding a screened-in porch or screen enclosure in Florida may increase your property taxes, the amount typically depends on several factors, including the cost and complexity of the project, your county’s regulations, and Florida-specific exemptions and caps.

By carefully planning your project, understanding local assessment practices, and consulting with professionals at Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, you can enjoy the benefits of a screened-in porch while keeping your property taxes manageable. Ultimately, the decision to add a screened-in porch would increase the value and enjoyment to your home, and just may outweigh the cost of the potential tax impact.