Short answer: Landlord accounting is often about evidence: rent received, agent statements, repairs, insurance, finance information and dates the property was let. The right accountant can help you organise those facts and understand the questions to check before filing.

Records a landlord accountant will usually ask for

  • Dates when the property was let and any void periods.
  • Rent received, agent statements, tenancy agreements and bank statements.
  • Invoices for repairs, maintenance, insurance, service charges, ground rent and professional fees.
  • Mortgage interest information and details of jointly owned property where relevant.

Expense areas to discuss carefully

  • Repairs versus improvements, because capital items may be treated differently.
  • Finance costs and mortgage interest treatment.
  • Costs shared between personal use and rental activity.
  • Accountant fees and letting agent fees linked to the rental business.

When specialist landlord experience matters

  • Multiple properties or mixed residential/commercial property.
  • Overseas or non-resident landlord issues.
  • Property held through a limited company or SPV.
  • MTD preparation where property income and sole trade income both matter.

What to send before an accountant quotes

Send a short summary of your business type, turnover band, deadlines, software, current record quality and the decision you are trying to make. This helps the accountant quote for the real work rather than a vague label.

Official guidance referenced

Use these links to check current rules, thresholds and deadlines.

Related detailed guides

FAQs

Do landlords legally need an accountant

Not always, but professional help can be valuable when records, ownership, finance costs, repairs or MTD rules are unclear.

Can I claim every property cost

No. Costs need to meet the relevant rules, and some may be capital rather than allowable against rental income.

Should I use landlord-specific software

It may help if you have several properties, but the right answer depends on your portfolio and accountant workflow.

Keep this current

Tax rules and thresholds can change. Check the linked official guidance and speak to an accountant before making important decisions.