Property Accounts
We specialise in property accounts for landlords and developers
Why Landlords and Property Investors Need Specialist Accountants
Property taxation in the UK is one of the most complex areas of personal and business finance. Landlords and property investors must navigate a constantly shifting landscape that includes mortgage interest relief restrictions, capital gains tax on disposals, stamp duty land tax surcharges on additional properties, and distinct reporting obligations that do not apply to other forms of income. The rules differ significantly depending on whether you hold property as an individual, through a partnership, or within a limited company structure, and getting the structure wrong from the outset can cost thousands of pounds over time.
For landlords in Guildford, Woking, and across Surrey, the stakes are particularly high given the value of property in the region. Whether you own a single buy-to-let flat or a growing portfolio of residential and commercial units, having a specialist property accountant on your side ensures you remain compliant with HMRC, claim every allowable deduction, and structure your affairs in the most tax-efficient way possible. At 360 Accounts & Bookkeeping, we work exclusively with property owners who need expert guidance tailored to the unique demands of the property sector.
Our Property Accounting Service
Rental Income & Expense Accounts
We prepare detailed rental accounts for every property in your portfolio, recording all income received and allowable expenses incurred. From letting agent fees and insurance premiums to repairs, maintenance, and ground rent, we ensure nothing is missed so your taxable profit is accurately calculated.
Capital Gains Tax Planning
Selling a property triggers a capital gains tax liability that must be carefully calculated and reported. We handle the full CGT computation, apply all available reliefs including principal private residence relief and lettings relief where applicable, and advise on the timing of disposals to minimise your overall tax bill.
Property Tax Returns
We prepare and submit Self Assessment tax returns that accurately reflect your property income, expenses, and any capital gains. For landlords with multiple properties or mixed income sources, we ensure every element is correctly reported and all deadlines are met.
Company Structure Advice for Portfolios
For landlords building or expanding a property portfolio, we provide detailed analysis of whether holding properties through a limited company could reduce your overall tax burden. We model the figures, explain the trade-offs, and help you make an informed decision about the right structure.
Our property accounting team brings deep specialist knowledge of the UK property tax regime. We stay up to date with every legislative change and HMRC guidance note so that our clients always receive current, accurate advice. Whether you are a first-time landlord or an experienced investor with a substantial portfolio, our approach is thorough, proactive, and focused on helping you retain more of your rental income and capital gains.
How We Support Property Owners Across Surrey
When you engage us as your property accountant, we begin with a comprehensive review of your entire portfolio. We examine your current ownership structure, assess how your rental income and expenses are being recorded, and identify any areas where tax savings may be available. From there, we work with you to optimise your structure, whether that involves restructuring ownership, incorporating a property company, or simply ensuring your existing arrangements are as efficient as possible.
For landlords managing multiple properties, we maintain separate records for each unit while providing consolidated reporting that gives you a clear overview of your total portfolio performance. We handle the ongoing accounting throughout the year, prepare your annual tax returns, and provide timely advice whenever your circumstances change, such as acquiring a new property, refinancing, or planning a disposal.
Our clients include landlords and investors across Guildford, Woking, Godalming, Dorking, Leatherhead, and the wider Surrey property market. Whether you own residential lets, houses in multiple occupation, commercial premises, or holiday rentals, we have the experience and local market understanding to support you effectively.
Key Property Tax Considerations
The UK property tax landscape has undergone significant changes in recent years. Landlords must be aware of the following obligations and restrictions that directly affect their tax position:
Mortgage Interest Relief Restriction (Section 24)
Since April 2020, individual landlords can no longer deduct mortgage interest as an expense against rental income. Instead, you receive a basic-rate tax credit of 20%. Higher and additional-rate taxpayers are significantly affected, as this can push you into a higher tax bracket on paper even though your actual profit has not increased.
60-Day CGT Reporting for Property Disposals
When you sell a residential property that is not your main home, you must report the disposal and pay any capital gains tax due to HMRC within 60 days of completion. Failure to meet this deadline results in automatic penalties and interest charges, regardless of whether you file a Self Assessment return later.
SDLT Surcharge on Additional Properties
Purchasing an additional residential property in England attracts a 5% stamp duty land tax surcharge on top of the standard rates. This applies to buy-to-let purchases, second homes, and investment properties. Careful planning around timing and ownership structure can sometimes mitigate this cost.
Non-Resident Landlord Scheme Obligations
If you live outside the UK for more than six months per year but receive rental income from UK property, you fall within the Non-Resident Landlord Scheme. Your letting agent or tenant may be required to deduct basic-rate tax from your rent unless you apply to HMRC for approval to receive rent gross.
Should You Hold Property Through a Limited Company?
One of the most common questions we receive from landlords is whether they should hold their properties through a limited company rather than in their own name. The answer depends on your individual circumstances, but there are clear advantages worth considering. Within a limited company, mortgage interest remains fully deductible as a business expense, which avoids the Section 24 restriction that affects individual landlords. Corporation tax, currently at 25%, is often lower than the combined income tax and National Insurance that a higher-rate taxpayer would pay on the same rental profits.
Retained profits can be reinvested into further property purchases without triggering an immediate personal tax charge, making a company structure attractive for landlords who are actively building a portfolio. However, incorporation is not without its drawbacks. Mortgage products for limited companies can carry higher interest rates and arrangement fees. Transferring existing properties into a company may trigger stamp duty land tax on the market value and could crystallise a capital gains tax liability on the transfer itself.
For new purchases, a company structure often makes strong financial sense, particularly for higher-rate taxpayers who intend to hold properties long term. For existing portfolios, the decision requires careful modelling of the costs involved against the ongoing tax savings. We help our clients across Surrey work through these calculations in detail so that every decision is based on solid numbers rather than assumptions.
Key Benefits
- Specialist property knowledge
- Rental income reporting
- Capital gains planning
- Mortgage interest relief advice
- Property company structuring
Free Initial Consultation
Book a free, no-obligation meeting to discuss your needs. Available in person, by phone, or via video call.
What's Included
Rental Accounts
Preparation of rental income and expense accounts, ensuring all allowable deductions are claimed.
Property Tax Returns
Self Assessment returns for property income, including UK and overseas properties.
Capital Gains Tax
CGT calculations and planning for property disposals, including principal private residence relief.
Company Structures
Advice on using limited companies for property investment, including incorporation relief.
Non-Resident Landlords
Support for overseas landlords with UK property, including NRLS scheme compliance.
Development Projects
Accounting for property development projects, including profit calculations and tax planning.
Property Accounts FAQs
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