Published: March 2025
Category: Finance | Planning

April brings the new tax year — and savvy Liverpool landlords don’t wait until HMRC come knocking to get their accounts in order.

Here’s how to prepare your rental finances in March, reduce your tax burden, and make smarter investment decisions for 2025–26.

✅ 1. Review Your Rental Income & Expenses

Now’s the time to look at:

- Rental income for each property

- Outstanding invoices or contractor costs

- Letting agent fees

- Mortgage interest payments (and Section 24 limitations)

- Service charges, insurance, ground rent

👉 Tip: Only the interest portion of mortgage payments is deductible (not the full amount).

✅ 2. Maximise Allowable Expenses

You can still claim for legitimate business expenses including:

- Letting agent & management fees

- Repairs (not improvements)

- Legal fees (e.g. eviction notices)

- Safety certificates (gas, EPC, EICR)

- Mileage & travel for inspections

Don’t leave money on the table by forgetting the basics.

✅ 3. Consider Future-Proofing with a Limited Company

More landlords are switching to limited company ownership to offset tax restrictions under Section 24. It’s not right for everyone — but if:

- You plan to grow your portfolio

- You’re a higher-rate taxpayer

- You want to reinvest profits

…then it’s worth speaking to a property accountant.

We can connect you with trusted tax partners if needed.

✅ 4. Use March to Adjust Rent Strategically

Inflation’s still biting — and many landlords are undercharging. If your tenant is due a contractual rent review, you can:

- Adjust to market rate

- Recover lost income from rising costs

- Do it legally and with proper notice

We handle this process with care — and compliance — to avoid disputes.

✅ 5. Prepare for Tax Return Season Early

You don’t need to wait until January 2026. Getting your paperwork ready now:

- Avoids stress

- Gives you time to amend issues

- Means faster refunds (if due)

Helps you plan cash flow through the year

💬 Want Help With Any of This?

Open Key supports Liverpool landlords with full-service management, rent reviews, licence compliance, and referrals to trusted tax pros.

📩 [email protected]
📞 0151 701 0212
💬 Request a Tax-Year Portfolio Review