Tax Q&A: Questions on Unclaimed Depreciation on Property, Answered.
Q: I own a three-bedroom townhouse that I bought three years ago for $434,000.
I never bothered getting a depreciation schedule as the place was 17 years old, and I was always under the impression that depreciation was only for new homes. However, I recently read in this magazine that older homes can attract good depreciation benefi ts as well.
What kind of depreciation schedule would I be able to get on this type of property, and can I go back and make claims on my previous tax returns? It’s a two-storey townhouse, with three bedrooms, and there is airconditioning in the main areas and living room, with a pool in the complex.
Thanks, Drew.
A: Property tax depreciation allowances or ‘capital allowances’ are calculated based upon two different sections of income tax legislation and consider two different aspects of your asset. The two main areas to property tax deductions are: Plant & Equipment; and the Capital Works deductions.
Plant & Equipment (also known as Division 40) are items that are usually fixtures and fi ttings, which can be easily removed from the property, as opposed to items that are permanently fixed to the structure of the building.
Plant and equipment items include, but are not limited to: hot water systems, carpets, blinds, ovens, cooktops, range hoods, freestanding furniture, air-conditioning systems, BBQs, heaters and flooring (floating floor boards).
“If you have not claimed depreciation on your property in the past, it is possible to amend previous tax returns – to a point” Continue reading
ATO is contacting Residential Investors – BEWARE!
The ATO has issued an early warning again this year. As tax time is nearing to an end for EFOY16 (yes that was quick), the ATO is reminding all residential property and holiday home investors to get in order your deductions as they intend to review this sector for discrepancies. Refer to the following link: : https://www.ato.gov.au/Tax-professionals/Newsroom/Your-practice/Deductions-for-rental-property-owners/?tpissue-10-2016
In particular, all your expenditure and capital allowances must be recorded, apportioned correctly and accurately in accordance with the current legislation. If you have made some profit in selling your investment property this financial year, the transaction may have resulted in a capital tax gains (CGT) event, and if not treated properly could result in a larger tax payment due than originally thought. You must also have sufficient evidence your property was income producing thus providing you a trigger to claim any deductions. Refer to the following link for a detailed explanation of what you may require for EOFYS 2016 on your residential property: https://www.ato.gov.au/General/Property/Residential-rental-properties/ Continue reading
