In a New Year bonanza for property owners, the Tambaram City Municipal Corporation has reduced charges for name changes in property tax records and introduced a uniform fee structure with effect from January. Until now, charges were calculated based on the market value of the property, often resulting in residents paying anywhere between Rs 15,000 and Rs 40,000, depending on the size and value of the property. Under the revised system, a flat fee of Rs 500 will be charged for residential properties, while non-residential or commercial properties will attract a fee of Rs 1,000. The move brings Tambaram in line with the Greater Chennai Corporation, which already charges Rs 500 for property tax name transfers. Adopting a similar model is expected to significantly reduce costs for people purchasing property within Tambaram Corporation limits. The revision follows a government order under the updated Tamil Nadu Urban Local Bodies rules, which standardize property tax name transfer fees across the state from January. Residents, particularly in areas such as Chromepet, had earlier raised concerns about being asked to pay high amounts based on property value. In several cases, revised assessments led to sharp increases in half-yearly property tax, creating confusion despite earlier assurances that previous dues would be waived. The new uniform fee structure is expected to address these issues and bring greater clarity and relief to property owners.