SDLT: Have You Paid The Right Amount?

If you have recently purchased a residential property, it is highly likely that you would have paid Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT).

However, many people fail to consider whether the amount they are paying is correct and potentially miss the chance to a claim a relief which could substantially reduce their SDLT bill.

Whilst there are currently several ways to make savings on SDLT, there are three main reliefs to consider when purchasing a property. If the answer to any of the following questions is "yes", you could be due a valuable relief and should consider seeking professional advice.

1) Has the residential property you purchased got a self-contained annex, such as a granny flat, in the grounds?

2) Does the property contain residential and commercial elements?

3) Did you pay an additional 3% surcharge on the purchase of your new home?

Whilst the above questions are a very basic starting point, there are a number of criteria which must be met in order to qualify for a reduction in SDLT and the rules surrounding them are very complex.

At Gepp Solicitors, we can assess your property purchase to determine if your SDLT bill can be reduced or if a refund can be claimed for any overpaid SDLT. Any initial review is free with a fee only payable on agreement of a reduction or on obtaining a refund from HMRC. We do not advocate the use of avoidance schemes and will not recommend any scheme under any circumstances.

If you can answer "yes" to any of the above questions, and would like to know if your SDLT liability can be reduced, please contact Marc Dorsett on 01245 228146 or dorsettm@gepp.co.uk.