Introduction
If you’re renting out property in Ireland, you must declare your rental income to Revenue. The good news is you can claim certain expenses to reduce your taxable rental income—and ultimately lower your tax bill.
This guide covers what Irish landlords can claim, drawing directly from Revenue.ie, so you can stay compliant while making the most of your entitlements.
Allowable Expenses for Landlords
Here’s what you can deduct:
| Expense Type | Details |
| Mortgage Interest | 100% of mortgage interest on qualifying loans (property must be registered with RTB). |
| Repairs and Maintenance | Routine repairs (e.g., fixing a boiler, repainting walls). Improvements (like extensions) are not deductible. |
| Insurance | Property insurance and landlord liability insurance. |
| Property Management Fees | Letting agent fees, advertising costs. |
| Utilities Paid by Landlord | Electricity, gas, or waste charges paid on behalf of tenants. |
| Accountancy Fees | Professional tax return services. |
| Legal Fees | For drafting leases or resolving tenant disputes. |
| Other Expenses | Service charges, ground rent, cleaning costs. |
Pro Tip: Major improvements (like building an extension) are not deductible as expenses but may be considered for Capital Gains Tax purposes later.
Special Reliefs and Deductions
Mortgage Interest Relief
From 2019, landlords can deduct 100% of qualifying mortgage interest, provided the property is properly registered with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).
Pre-Letting Expenses
Revenue allows landlords to claim certain expenses incurred just before letting a property—like advertising costs or painting.
Pro Tip: Always maintain receipts and clear records. Revenue may ask for proof during a compliance check.
Non-Allowable Expenses
Not everything you spend is deductible.
You cannot claim for:
- Capital improvements (like adding a conservatory).
- Personal expenses unrelated to the rental.
- Time and labor if you do DIY work.
Conclusion
Understanding which expenses you can claim against rental income is key to managing your finances as a landlord. Proper tax planning ensures compliance and maximizes your deductions.
Need help filing your rental income taxes?
TaxReturned.ie offers expert guidance to Irish landlords, helping you claim all available reliefs while staying fully compliant.
Contact TaxReturned.ie today to simplify your rental income returns.