A Quick Guide for Landlords
As a rental property owner, strategically navigating tax deductions can significantly reduce your taxable income and ultimately maximise your investment returns. As the end of the financial year approaches, it’s essential to be aware of various deductions available to landlords for the 2025 financial year. Here’s a concise guide to help you capitalise on your opportunities:
Key Tax Deductions for 2025
- You can deduct interest on any mortgage for your rental properties. This is one of the most substantial deductions for many landlords, so be sure to keep track of the interest paid.
- Claim depreciation on both the property itself and its contents, including appliances and furnishings. This can be a major deduction over the life of your property.
- To ensure you are maximising your depreciation claims, consider engaging a qualified quantity surveyor. They can create a detailed depreciation schedule tailored to your property.
- If you employ a property management service, the fees charged are fully deductible. This includes anything from tenant sourcing to day-to-day management.
- Costs incurred for repairing and maintaining your property can be claimed in the year they occur. Keep detailed records of any repairs made.
- Local council rates and land taxes are deductible from your taxable income, helping reduce overall costs.
- Deduct premiums for insurance related to property, landlord coverage, and contents insurance. These are essential for protecting your investment.
- Any expenses incurred for advertising to find tenants are fully deductible. This includes online ads, signs, and print advertising.
- Fees paid for legal advice and accounting services specifically related to your rental property can also be deducted.
- If your property is part of a strata scheme, fees for strata management and maintenance of common areas can be claimed.
- The costs associated with significant renovations or construction can be deducted over time, typically outlined in a Quantity Surveyor’s report.
Maximising your tax deductions as a landlord not only helps improve your investment returns but also reduces your taxable income. Be proactive in managing expenses and documenting everything meticulously. Consulting with a tax professional can further ensure that you are claiming all eligible deductions.
As we near the end of the financial year, take action on these points to maximise your returns. Make sure to settle expenses before 30 June 2025 to ensure you benefit from these deductions.