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This edited version has been archived due to the length of time since original publication. It should not be regarded as indicative of the ATO's current views. The law may have changed since original publication, and views in the edited version may also be affected by subsequent precedents and new approaches to the application of the law.

You cannot rely on this record in your tax affairs. It is not binding and provides you with no protection (including from any underpaid tax, penalty or interest). In addition, this record is not an authority for the purposes of establishing a reasonably arguable position for you to apply to your own circumstances. For more information on the status of edited versions of private advice and reasons we publish them, see PS LA 2008/4.

Edited version of private advice

Authorisation Number: 1051671967622

Date of advice: 4 May 2020

Ruling

Subject: Rental deductions - holding costs - no rental income

Question

Are you entitled to a deduction for a portion of your holding costs you incurred while your rental property was being renovated?

Answer

Yes. The commissioner is satisfied that your holding costs are an allowable deduction under Section 8-1 of the Income Tax Assessment Act (ITAA 1997). You are entitled to claim a deduction for your holding costs for the portion of your property you intend to make available for rent.

This ruling applies for the following period:

Year ended 30 June 2019

The scheme commences on:

1 July 2018

Relevant facts and circumstances

You purchased the property which was tenanted on a commercial basis.

You continued to rent the property after purchase.

The property was vacated for renovation.

On completion of the renovations, you intended to rent part of the property commercially and to live in the remainder of the property.

The renovation was expected to be completed during the 20XX financial year.

The renovations have been unexpectedly prolonged, due to issues with the builder.

Part of the renovation has been completed.

Legal action is currently being taken against the builder.

The property was not rented during the 20XX financial year as the property was not fit to be tenanted while being renovated.

You lived in the partially renovated property for part of the 20XX financial year.

You only lived in the residential section of the property. You did not use the commercial section of the property.

You still intended to rent part of the property commercially on completion of the renovation.

The residential and commercial sections of the property are clearly defined.

You vacated the property in 20XX.

You rent the entire partially renovated property. You charge a reduced rate until the renovations are completed.

Relevant legislative provisions

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 Section 8-1