Kitchen / bathroom replacement before first let

[vaila_street]

I've checked the forums for a definitive answer but I can't find one specifically for this scenario:

I have purchased a flat for BTL purposes - the kitchen / bathroom are useable ( if slightly dated / grubby ) and could do with like for like replacement to enhance future letting prospects.

If I carry out the work now ( before the first let ) can it be considered as a fully taxable expense?

[TaxationPete]

Yes you can offset these cost against your revenue profit. Regards Peter

[vaila_street]

Cheers - if the work is carried out in Nov 2015 would the offset only be applicable to any profit in the current tax year ( ie up to Apr 2016? )

[JK0]

I'd leave the dated kitchen & bathroom, but make sure they were surgically clean.

I bet you'll thank me when you get the flat back.

[mind the gap]

I would update them and reap the rewards of higher rent and fewer voids.

[jpkeates]

Cheers - if the work is carried out in Nov 2015 would the offset only be applicable to any profit in the current tax year ( ie up to Apr 2016? )

You treat the costs as if they were incurred the first day the property is rented.

You might want to think about the optimum dates - remembering that losses can also be carried forward if declared.