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Multiple Dwellings Relief (“MDR”) offers relief for residential property transactions where the transaction consists of two or more self-contained dwellings – typical cases will involve a residential property which has a connected or unconnected annex.
What is a Self-Contained Dwelling?
For a self-contained annex to qualify as a dwelling, it will need to be:
If the self-contained annex is actually being occupied as a self-contained dwelling then it will almost certainly qualify for relief.
If the self-contained annex is not being occupied, then you will need to demonstrate that it is suitable for use as a dwelling.
What are the key factors?
In order for a self-contained annex to qualify as a dwelling, it will need to have the facilities to provide the basic living necessities such as facilities for personal hygiene, consumption of food and drink, storage of personal belongings and a place to sleep.
As such, the prima facie indicators that a self-contained annex will qualify as a dwelling as such include:
Whilst, these might be the minimum criteria required, it is not always conclusive. For instance, a number of self-contained dwellings may share a kitchen.
What else do I need to think about?
Recent case law has illustrated that one must take a realistic approach when determining whether a self-contained annex may qualify for relief. With this in mind, other factors which may prove useful / detrimental in a claim for MDR may include:
Do I Have a Self-Contained Dwelling?
Due to the way the legislation is drafted, there is no checklist of criteria or conditions which allows scope for a judgement call. Ultimately, it will be a case of weighing up all of the factors and taking a reasonable and balanced view based on the physical attributes of the property.
This can therefore be a subjective process and determining whether or not an annex qualifies as a dwelling for MDR purposes may subject taxpayers to queries from HMRC given it is in HMRCs best interests that the annex does not qualify as a dwelling!
How can ETC Help?
ETC Tax are qualified and specialist tax advisers who have helped a number of clients make successful claims for MDR. With HMRC actively challenging MDR claims, it would be worth getting advice from a specialist who is familiar with the existing and growing case law and can present the best possible case for a claim.
If you think you may have grounds for a claim, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We are happy to review your circumstances and provide our initial thoughts on the prospects of an MDR claim.
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