Deductible Expenses on Rental Property (Fiberglass Roof issue causing leaks in kitchen and leading t

PeteSouthgate72

Hi everyone,

I hope you're all doing well. I have a question regarding a potential roof repair issue and its eligibility as a claimable tax expense.

My tenant has highlighted some concerning signs of wear on the roof of my rental property. Given the importance of maintaining the property's integrity, I'm considering addressing this issue promptly. However, I'm curious about the tax implications surrounding such repairs.

To provide context, the property had an extension completed approximately four years ago, featuring a fiberglass roof. The tenant has highlighted two primary issues—one related to the fiberglass roof and another concerning the original roof not part of the extension:

“The adverse weather conditions of late have exacerbated leaks in the kitchen and at the front door, resulting in damp walls and emerging mold issues. While it's not presently causing immediate problems like dripping, it's a concerning development. I suspect it might require assessment and guidance from a specialist well-versed in fiberglass roofing.”

“Upon inspection of the under-eaves storage in the top bedroom, two significant issues were noted. Firstly, there's evidence of water seepage from the roof on one side of the loft. This might signal a potential problem with the adjoining terraced house's party wall or damp course rather than the roof itself. Immediate measures like placing plastic have been taken, but there's a worry it could lead to dampness in the 1st-floor bedroom over time. Secondly, a section of roofing underlay has been missing since the tenant moved in. The recent winter weather has exacerbated the situation, causing mold on stored items and giving the roof tiles a damp appearance. It's clear that heavy rain and winds are emphasizing the roof's lack of watertightness.”

I'm seeking advice regarding whether these specific roofing problems might qualify as allowable claimable deductions as I haven’t encountered these issues before.

For those wondering about a guarantee with the fiber glass roof. It was done by a reputable builder who I have contacted to inform them of what's happened and they have advised me they unfortunately went into administration. However, they are pleased to share that we have re-emerged as under a different company name, and are eager to continue offering our services in the field of ground works-structural works and general building contractors.

I don’t believe I have a guarantee and when I have looked through the Minor Works Contract it does state The Work will not be covered by an insurance-backed guarantee.

Many thanks in advance for advice given under these circumstances,

Pete

caprikid1

All of these sound deductable and no capital even a replacement roof probably would be ok against expenses as the existing one is only 4 years old so might not be considered an upgrade.

sounds like act now and worry about the tax status later.

EssexHebridean

Just checking - this sounds like the tenant/property may not be in the UK - use of "fiberglass" and "mold" as spellings make me wonder if this is actually in the USA, in which case, the help that can be offered here might be limited? 

PeteSouthgate72

UK based, am visiting the property this weekend with the contractor who done the extension/roof and will report back here next week with an update.

Pete