Introduction
Filing a tax return in the UK can feel like walking through a maze. The forms are long, the rules often change, and the deadlines come faster than you think. For many people, especially self-employed professionals and landlords, getting help from a self assessment tax return accountant is no longer a luxury—it’s a smart decision.
In this guide, we’ll explain what accountants do, why their role is so important, and how they can make the process easier for those completing a tax return for landlords.
What is a Self Assessment Tax Return?
The self-assessment system is HMRC’s method for collecting income tax from people who don’t have all their income taxed through PAYE. If you’re a freelancer, contractor, small business owner, or landlord, you probably fall into this category.
Your return includes:
-
All income streams (self-employment, rental, dividends, savings)
-
Allowable expenses
-
Adjustments for tax reliefs and deductions
Once filed, HMRC calculates what you owe—or what refund you may be due.
Why Many People Struggle
Tax legislation in the UK is complex. There are rules about what you can claim, restrictions on certain reliefs, and penalties for mistakes. Even the most careful taxpayer can easily overlook details.
That’s why working with a self assessment tax return accountant is so valuable. They live and breathe these rules and help you stay compliant while making sure you don’t overpay.
The Role of a Self Assessment Tax Return Accountant
An accountant’s job goes far beyond filling out forms. Here’s what they actually do:
1. Accurate Preparation
They ensure every source of income is declared properly and expenses are correctly allocated.
2. Expense Optimization
An accountant identifies which expenses are deductible. For landlords, this means maximizing claims on mortgage interest relief, repairs, and management costs.
3. Deadline Management
They remind you of upcoming deadlines and avoid last-minute stress.
4. Representation
If HMRC asks questions, your accountant can represent you, saving hours of worry.
Benefits of Hiring an Accountant
-
Saves Time: You focus on running your business or managing properties.
-
Saves Money: Accountants spot reliefs you may miss, reducing tax liability.
-
Peace of Mind: Confidence that your return is correct.
-
Future Planning: They can advise on structuring income to minimize tax in future years.
Self Assessment Tax Return for Landlords
If you own property and receive rental income, your obligations become more complex. Filing a tax return for landlords involves more than reporting rent. You must separate allowable expenses from personal spending and understand changing HMRC rules.
Key Expenses Landlords Can Claim:
-
Repairs and maintenance
-
Letting agent fees
-
Property insurance
-
Replacement of domestic items (furniture, appliances)
-
Service charges and ground rent
Restricted Relief:
Mortgage interest used to be fully deductible, but now it’s limited to a 20% tax credit. Many landlords fail to adjust their figures correctly, which can lead to under or overpayment.
A self assessment tax return accountant ensures you claim the right amounts and stay aligned with HMRC changes.
Common Mistakes Landlords Make
-
Forgetting to declare rental income from holiday lets or Airbnb.
-
Treating property improvements (like extensions) as expenses rather than capital improvements.
-
Missing filing deadlines because records are incomplete.
-
Not registering with HMRC in time.
These mistakes can be costly, but an experienced accountant prevents them.
How an Accountant Helps with Digital Tax
The UK is moving towards Making Tax Digital (MTD). This will soon require quarterly updates for landlords and self-employed people earning above certain thresholds.
A self assessment tax return accountant ensures your digital records are accurate, software is set up, and submissions are done on time.
Real-Life Example:
Sophie, a landlord in Manchester, managed her first property return alone. She deducted the full cost of her new kitchen as an expense. HMRC later challenged it, arguing it was a capital improvement, not a repair. She faced penalties and interest.
The next year, she hired an accountant. They corrected her filings, reduced her tax liability, and guided her on what expenses to claim. The stress disappeared, and Sophie saved money in the long run.
Step-by-Step: Working with a Tax Accountant
-
Initial Consultation – Discuss your income sources and tax concerns.
-
Record Collection – Provide invoices, bank statements, and rental income records.
-
Draft Return – The accountant prepares a draft return for review.
-
Submission – They file with HMRC by the deadline.
-
Ongoing Support – Advice on future planning, expenses, and MTD compliance.
Should You Do It Yourself or Hire Help?
DIY filing may work if your finances are very simple. But if you’re a landlord, contractor, or have multiple income streams, using a self assessment tax return accountant is usually more cost-effective.
Think of it this way: an accountant’s fee is often lower than the penalties or overpayments that come from filing incorrectly.
FAQs
Q: Do landlords have to file every year?
Yes, if you receive rental income above £1,000, you must declare it.
Q: Can I offset rental losses?
Yes, losses can sometimes be carried forward against future rental profits.
Q: Is it worth hiring an accountant for one property?
Yes, especially if you’re unsure about expenses or HMRC’s digital changes.
Conclusion
Filing taxes is unavoidable, but struggling with it doesn’t have to be. A self assessment tax return accountant brings expertise, saves time, and ensures accuracy. For landlords, having professional guidance on a tax return for landlords can be the difference between penalties and peace of mind.
By keeping records organized and working with a trusted accountant, you’ll meet deadlines confidently and possibly save money in the process.
