VAT implications for housebuilders who let out unsold properties

Posted: Friday, 7 November 2008 @ 10:06

A lot of articles have been written recently about the Revenue’s view on the VAT treatment of a house-builder who, in the current climate, alters the nature of its business from the sale of houses (which are zero-rated supplies of new dwellings), to the short-term letting of houses (which are exempt supplies). Although a change from taxable to partially exempt supplies can affect a housebuilder’s VAT recovery position, the Revenue allows the application of a de minimis rule to ascertain if the level of partially-exempt activity should affect VAT recovery.

However, it's worth bearing in mind that you do not have to concern yourself with a partial exemption/de minimis approach (and the possibility of incurring a proportion of irrecoverable VAT) if you adopt an alternative strategy.

This involves transferring your interest in the completed dwelling to a connected person (who would not be a member of your VAT group) who then enters into the short-term letting arrangements. In this way, the initial transfer qualifies as a zero-rated supply of a new dwelling, and therefore facilitates full recovery of input tax incurred. The subsequent grant of tenancies by the connected company is exempt from VAT. According to the Revenue, this is not an abusive practice.

This is another example of why successful property development is all about avoiding the traps.

Steve Petty, Commercial Property Lawyer

For free advice on this topic please call us on 0845 003 5639.

This blog is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor is it intended to be a complete and authoritative statement of the law, and what we say might be out of date by the time you read it. You should always seek legal advice to confirm whether or how any information in this article applies to your particular situation. We offer a free telephone consultation to discuss your particular circumstances.

Comments

  • There are no comments for this page - click here to be the first

Need legal advice for your business? We can help

Directors

Directors
Practical advice and legal support for company owners and directors.

Disputes

Disputes
In dispute with a customer or supplier? Get practical advice and support.

Your legal advisor

Your legal advisor
Board level legal advice without the costs of an in-house lawyer.

Speak to a lawyer

Speak to a lawyer
Thank you. Your response is great, very straight to the point! Hopefully this will bring an end to the matter. I will certainly be recommending your services as I am very impressed with the prompt dealing of this matter.
Janet Burbidge

Get legal updates

Enter your email address to receive our monthly Blog Newsletter


We will keep your email safe in accordance with our privacy policy.

Get the FREE definitive guide to solving business disputes

Posts by author

Speak to a lawyer

Get legal updates

Enter your email address to receive our monthly Blog Newsletter
The Law Society
Top