Writing off accomodation expenses

[xoggoth]

If you check IR booklets, 380 I think, you will find that the IR themselves say a flat is ok if it is no more than an alternative to a hotel.

[PAH]

I've rented instead of staying in hotels/b&bs whenever possible, usually governed by whether I think the contract will last beyond the 6 month minimum rental period.

Had no problems whatsoever claiming the cost of the accommodation, gas/leccy bills, council tax etc as expenses, providing I can prove my main residence is outside reasonable commuting distance.

As has been mentioned you can claim milage allowance to get to/from your main/temporary residence, which I do for each weekend as I always go back to my permanent residence every weekend, honest.

[Bluebird]

I suppose depending on the distance between your Co location and the client site - could you not claim milage instead or rent.

[scooterscot]

If it ever comes head to head with the tax man this is your agreement: I rented instead of paying for a hotel because it was cheaper and I would have more profits left to pay more tax to you kind sir. They cannot argue with that!! GRRRRR love your tax man

[Shieldsy]

I am in this situation now as a contractor and faced a similar situation as an employee seconded to a long term project in London where the company provided accomodation etc.

Rent is an acceptable expense however only for up to two years. As soon as you are aware that the contract will run for over two years then it is not - your new location will become your 'permanent place of employment' and expenses incured will not be tax deductable. It is important to remember that it is the point that you become aware that the contract is for more than two years. i.e. if you were given a 25 month contract then you could not claim rent as an expense.

Also is important to demonstrate that your permanent residence is your home in London. The tax man will expect you to return there regularly i.e. most weekends.

With regards to bills I claim Water 100% as this is not metered therefore have to pay full amount regardless of how much I use. For gas and electricity which are metered then I only claim the standing charge as the cost of the actual fuel would have to be paid anyway at my home.

Council tax is a claimable expense.

I am not qualified however the above is advice from my accountant and my previous employers tax expert.

Hope this helps.