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For Landlords

Tax Return for Landlords

Complete your Self Assessment in 8 minutes. Claim all your allowable expenses and submit directly to HMRC.

  • Mortgage interest calculations
  • Track property expenses
  • Multiple property support
  • MTD-ready for 2026

Example Tax Calculation

Based on typical landlords earnings £18,000/year

Gross Income£18,000
Expenses4,000
Taxable Profit£14,000
Income Tax£286
National Insurance£86

*Illustrative example based on 2024/25 tax rates. Your actual tax depends on your specific circumstances.

Allowable Expenses for Landlords

Claim these tax-deductible expenses to reduce your tax bill

Mortgage Interest Relief

Claim 20% tax relief on mortgage interest as a tax reducer (Section 24).

Tip: This is a tax credit, not a deduction from income

Repairs & Maintenance

Repairs to keep the property in good condition (not improvements).

Tip: Replacing like-for-like is a repair; upgrades are improvements

Letting Agent Fees

Management fees, tenant finding fees, and inventory costs.

Tip: Include all professional fees related to letting

Insurance & Compliance

Landlord insurance, gas safety certificates, EPC costs, and licensing.

Tip: All compliance costs are fully deductible

More expenses you can claim

Ground rent and service charges
Council tax (void periods)
Accountant fees
Legal fees (not purchase)
Travel to property
Advertising for tenants
Utilities (if included in rent)

Landlords Industry Insights

Essential information about working as a landlords in the UK

Common Structure

sole trader

Personal ownership common for existing portfolios; new purchases may benefit from limited company for mortgage interest

Required Certifications & Qualifications

Electrical safety certificate (EICR)
Gas safety certificate (annual)
EPC certificate
Landlord licence (selective licensing areas)
Right to Rent checks

When Do Landlords Earn Most?

Understanding seasonal demand helps you plan your income and expenses throughout the tax year.

Peak Demand Periods

August-September (student lets)Spring (family moves)

Quieter Periods

November-January

Industry Insight

Student accommodation has very specific letting cycles

Tax tip: During quieter periods, use the time to organise receipts, update your records, and plan for upcoming tax deadlines.

Tax Tips for Landlords

Specific tax considerations to maximise your deductions and stay compliant

Mortgage interest relief is restricted to basic rate (20%)

Replacement furniture relief (not capital allowances)

Letting agent fees are deductible

Maintenance and repairs are deductible; improvements are not

These tips are based on UK tax rules for the 2024/25 tax year. For personalised advice, consult a qualified accountant.

How to File Your Tax Return

Follow these simple steps to complete your Self Assessment

1

Gather Your Documents

Collect income records, receipts, and expense statements

2

Enter Income & Expenses

Add your earnings and claim allowable expenses with our guided flow

3

Review Your Calculation

See exactly how much tax you owe with real-time calculations

4

Submit to HMRC

File your tax return directly to HMRC in minutes

Key Deadlines for 2024/25 Tax Year

Don't miss these important dates

5 April 2025

Tax Year Ends

Calculate your final income and expenses

5 October 2025

Register for Self Assessment

If this is your first year self-employed

31 January 2026

Online Filing Deadline

Submit your tax return and pay any tax owed

6 April 2026

MTD Starts (£50k+)

If your income exceeds £50,000, you must use MTD software

Late Filing Penalties

1 day late: £100 fixed penalty

3 months late: £10/day up to £900

6 months late: 5% of tax owed or £300 (whichever is higher)

12 months late: Additional 5% or £300

Plus interest on any tax paid late. Avoid these costs by filing early with QTax.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about tax returns for landlords

How does Section 24 affect my tax?

Since 2020, you cannot deduct mortgage interest from rental income. Instead, you receive a 20% tax credit. Higher-rate taxpayers pay more tax than before Section 24.

What is the difference between repairs and improvements?

Repairs (fixing or replacing like-for-like) are deductible immediately. Improvements (upgrading or enhancing) must be claimed when you sell the property as a capital expense.

Do I need to register for Self Assessment?

Yes, if your rental income exceeds £1,000 (the property allowance) or you want to claim expenses. Register with HMRC for Self Assessment.

Related Guides

Explore tax guides for similar professions

Ready to File Your Tax Return?

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