Maximise Your Investment: The Top Tax Deductions Every Property Investor Should Know

Owning an investment property is about more than just collecting rent it’s about building long-term wealth. But to truly make your investment work for you, it's essential to understand the range of tax deductions available.

At Brand Property, we know how important it is to maximise your return on investment. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you take full advantage of what you’re entitled to come tax time.

Here’s a closer look at the most valuable rental property tax deductions every investor should know and how they can help increase your cash flow and grow your portfolio faster.

1. Interest on Your Investment Loan

You can claim the interest portion of your loan repayments, along with associated loan fees. However, the principal amount or any portion used for private purposes is not deductible.

2. Insurance Premiums

Landlord, building, and contents insurance premiums are fully deductible. If prepaid, they can be claimed in the year they are paid.

3. Advertising for Tenants

Expenses to promote your rental property, such as online listings or signage, are tax deductible. If you use a property manager, these costs may be included in their service fees.

4. Repairs and Maintenance

Repairs (fixing damage) and maintenance (preventative work) are deductible. Capital improvements must be depreciated.

5. Travel Expenses

Travel deductions are limited to certain entities. Individual investors generally can't claim travel to inspect or maintain a rental.

6. Body Corporate Fees

Fees related to managing common areas in strata properties are deductible. Additional services included in these fees can't be claimed separately.

7. Property Management Fees

All management-related fees and communication expenses are deductible.

8. Cleaning Costs

Cleaning services or cleaning supplies used for the rental are deductible (but not your own time).

9. Council Rates

Rates and emergency service levies are fully deductible for periods when the property is available for rent.

10. Gardening and Lawn Maintenance

Expenses for garden services or products required under a lease agreement are deductible.

11. Water Charges

Service and sewer fees paid by you (not the tenant) are deductible.

12. Pest Control

If you're responsible under the lease for pest treatments, those costs are deductible.

13. Utilities

Any utility bills you pay for tenants (e.g., internet, electricity) are tax deductible.

14. Legal Fees

Legal expenses directly tied to managing the rental (e.g., eviction or damage disputes) are deductible. Costs to buy or sell the property are not.

15. Accounting and Depreciation Schedules

Fees for accountants and tax depreciation schedules are fully deductible in the year paid.

16. Refinancing Costs

You can deduct costs such as discharge fees or loan establishment charges, often spread over five years.

17. Land Tax

Land tax on investment properties is deductible annually, but varies by state.

18. Property Depreciation

Smart property investment isn’t just about location it’s about maximising every dollar. By knowing what to claim, and working with experts, you can dramatically improve your returns.

Get in touch with Brand Property today for a free rental appraisal or to connect with trusted tax and depreciation professionals.

We’re here to help you build wealth, save smarter, and invest with confidence.