Allowable costs for property CGT
TCGA 1992 s.38 allows three categories of expenditure: acquisition costs, enhancement costs reflected in the property at sale, and disposal costs.
Updated for the 2026/27 tax year · Reviewed against HMRC guidance
What you can deduct
| Category | Allowable | Not allowable |
|---|---|---|
| Buying | SDLT/LBTT, conveyancing, survey, search fees | Mortgage arrangement fees |
| Improving | Extensions, loft conversions, new kitchen replacing none, conservatory | Repairs, redecoration, like-for-like replacements |
| Selling | Estate agent, conveyancing, EPC, advertising | Removal costs |
Improvements must still exist
Enhancement expenditure is only deductible if it is reflected in the state of the asset at the time of sale. A conservatory you later demolished doesn't count.
Keep evidence
Keep invoices and completion statements. HMRC can ask for evidence of costs claimed for up to several years after the return.
Frequently asked questions
This guide is general information based on the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 and HMRC guidance (including HS283). It is not personal tax advice — for complex cases speak to a qualified tax adviser.