Buy-to-Let Stamp Duty Calculator
Most buy-to-let purchases attract the 5% additional-property surcharge on top of standard SDLT rates. The surcharge applies to every band and is calculated on the full purchase price.
BTL through a limited company
Many landlords buy through a limited company for income tax reasons. SDLT-wise, the company pays the same standard rates plus 5% surcharge below £500,000. Above £500,000, the 17% flat rate applies unless the company qualifies for the property rental business relief, which a genuine BTL operation typically does. See the limited company purchase guide for the detail.
Frequently asked
- Do all buy-to-let purchases attract the 5% surcharge?
- Yes if the purchase is over £40,000 and the buyer already owns any residential property. A first BTL purchase by someone who owns no other residential property is rare, but if you do not own any other home worth more than £40,000 the surcharge does not apply.
- Should I buy a BTL through a limited company?
- The trade-off is SDLT and income/corporation tax. A company purchase under £500,000 attracts standard rates plus the 5% surcharge, the same as an individual buying a second property. Above £500,000 the company faces the 17% flat rate unless it qualifies for the rental business relief, which most genuine BTL companies do. Take advice on the corporation tax versus income tax position separately.
- Can I deduct SDLT from my rental income for tax?
- No, SDLT is a capital cost and is not deductible against rental income. It is added to the property's base cost for capital gains tax on eventual sale.
For the full surcharge rules, refund eligibility and worked examples, see the additional property guide.