If you’re a landlord earning income from rental property, the first key financial date of the year is fast approaching: the Self-Assessment landlord tax deadline on 31 January 2026.
Whether you’re letting out a single property or managing a full portfolio, meeting this deadline is essential to avoid penalties and keep your finances on track.
Who Needs to Complete a Self-Assessment?
If you’ve earned income from letting property between 6 April 2024 and 5 April 2025, you may need to submit a Self Assessment tax return, even if you’re not self-employed. HMRC requires all landlords who receive untaxed income from rental properties to declare their earnings and pay any tax owed.
You’ll need to file a return if you:
- Let out a property as an individual or through a partnership
- Have property income over £1,000 (after allowable expenses)
- Earned rental income from holiday lets, buy-to-lets or lodgers
- Sold a property and made a capital gain
What Do Landlords Need to Include?
Your tax return should detail:
- Gross rental income
- Allowable expenses (e.g. maintenance, letting agent fees, insurance)
- Mortgage interest (if applicable under current rules)
- Any other income received during the tax year
- Contributions to pensions or charities are eligible for tax relief
It’s also important to keep supporting documents such as:
- Rental agreements
- Receipts for maintenance or repair work
- Mortgage statements
- Insurance and service charge records
Don’t Leave It Too Late
The Self Assessment deadline is midnight on 31 January 2026. You must:
- Submit your return online
- Pay any tax owed
Missing this landlord tax deadline may result in an automatic £100 fine, even if no tax is due. Further penalties apply for continued delays or inaccurate information.
Need Help? Use an Agent or Get Support
If you’re new to Self Assessment or find the process overwhelming, you can appoint a tax agent or accountant to file your return on your behalf. Just make sure you register them with HMRC officially and never share your login details.
There’s also plenty of support available:
- GOV.UK tools and explainer videos
- HMRC app and digital assistant
- Live webinars and help guides for landlords
Final Tips for Landlords
- Register for Self Assessment as soon as possible if you’re new
- Double-check your records before submission
- Plan ahead for payment, use HMRC’s Budget Payment Plan or Time to Pay if needed
- Don’t ignore HMRC reminders, even if you think you don’t owe tax, you must still respond
Filing your return accurately and on time keeps your property business running smoothly and avoids unnecessary fines. The landlord tax deadline may seem daunting, but a little preparation now saves a lot of stress later.
