Tax Centre
UK property tax, explained for overseas investors
Tax is where overseas returns are won or lost. Each page gives a plain-English explanation, who it applies to, how it hits your return, a worked example, common mistakes and an action checklist — reconciled to current gov.uk figures.
Guides
SDLT for non-residentsStamp Duty Land Tax is the biggest single upfront cost for an overseas buyer — and non-residents pay two surcharges on top of the standard rates.
Additional property surchargeSince 31 October 2024 the surcharge on additional dwellings is 5% of the whole price — up from 3%.
Rental income tax & Section 24UK rental profits are taxed in the UK even if you live abroad, and mortgage-interest relief is capped at a 20% tax credit.
Non-Resident Landlord SchemeIf you live abroad, your agent or tenant must deduct basic-rate tax from your rent unless HMRC approves you to receive it gross.
Section 24 mortgage-interest restrictionIndividual landlords can no longer deduct mortgage interest as an expense — only a 20% tax credit — which can push higher-rate investors into tax on loss-making lets.
Personal vs company ownershipHolding through a UK company avoids Section 24 and taxes profit at corporation-tax rates, but adds running costs and a second layer of tax to get money out.
Capital Gains TaxNon-residents pay UK CGT on gains from UK residential property, must report within 60 days, and can often rebase the gain to April 2015.
Inheritance TaxUK residential property is always within UK Inheritance Tax at 40% above the nil-rate band — even for non-residents, and even if held via an offshore company.
ATED (Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings)Companies owning UK dwellings worth over £500,000 face a flat annual ATED charge — unless a relief (such as genuine commercial letting) applies.
Singapore investor considerationsSingapore does not tax most foreign rental gains or capital gains, and the UK–Singapore treaty prevents double taxation — but you still pay UK tax first.
Tax filing calendarThe key UK dates an overseas landlord must not miss — Self Assessment, the 60-day CGT report, ATED, and the new Making Tax Digital quarterly updates.
Common tax mistakesThe recurring errors that cost overseas investors money — from forgetting surcharges to missing the 60-day CGT clock.
Disclaimer. This page is for general education only and is not tax, legal, mortgage, or investment advice. UK tax rules change and depend on your personal circumstances. Always consult a qualified UK tax adviser before making a decision.
Disclaimer. The information on Brick.sg is for general education and market research only. It is not financial, investment, tax, mortgage, or legal advice. Property investments involve risk, and returns are not guaranteed. Always seek independent professional advice before buying UK property.