“Granny Flats” now not to be included

The controversial new tax for buy-to-let and second homes introduced from  1st of April will not now include homeowners with self-contained “granny flats”, the government will table an amendment to correct the error and ensure fair treatment for annexes.

The problem was the changes would have meant anyone buying a home with a granny flat would have had to pay out more due to the tax surcharge, the Treasury has now announced changes to the rules to protect houses with self-contained annexes.

The 3% surcharge on Stamp Duty will only apply if the annex is worth more than a third of the total value of the property.

David Gauke MP, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, reportedly  told the House of Commons. “I have been made aware that the Bill as drafted might lead to some main houses with an annexe for older relatives attracting the higher rates of Stamp Duty intended to apply to additional properties,” David Gauke MP, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, told the House of Commons.

“I am happy to assure the House that that is not our intention and the Government will table an amendment to correct the error and ensure fair treatment for annexes.

“We certainly do not want to discourage people who wish to create an annexe for an elderly or disabled relative, providing them with support close at hand.”

Allen Walkey

Highly experienced businessman with a successful career in property sales and investment both in the UK and abroad. Now a freelance writer and blogger for the property and Investment Industry, keeping readers up-to-date with changes and events in a rapidly changing world.

You May Also Enjoy

Breaking News

Top tips to make your home winter-ready for a successful sale

Following the festive period, many people turn their thoughts and attention to potential new year property aspirations. Traditionally, record numbers of people jump onto property-related websites after Christmas and into the New Year, so it’s a great time to consider marketing your home, knowing there are tens of thousands of extra people seriously considering a…
Read More
Breaking News

Propertymark Annual Sales Price Report 2025

With housing being a fundamental need and playing a vital role in the UK economy, a strong housing market is a vital factor, this report examines the strength of the housing market and looks at average prices year on year. Headline figures The entire of 2024 vs 2025 The number of properties placed for sale…
Read More
Breaking News

Lloyds reveals its 2025 housing hot spots

Plymouth property prices up +12.6% over the past year   Hull joins the top 10, up +6.5%, and fresh from being named a 2026 ‘Best of the World’ destination by National Geographic   Value of a London home dipped slightly (-0.1%) but remain the most expensive overall, averaging £574,514   Amanda Bryden, Head of Mortgages…
Read More
Breaking News

2025: A landmark year for UK renters and homebuyers – what consumers need to know

From major rental reforms to new powers tackling unsafe or empty buildings, 2025 has become one of the most transformative years for housing across the UK. Whether renting, buying, or managing a property, millions of people will feel the effects of the changes rolling out nation by nation. Propertymark has broken down what these changes…
Read More
Estate Agent Talk

Are ‘for sale’ boards becoming obsolete?

Earlier this year, Westminster Council announced that it would apply to ban estate agents from displaying sales boards outside residential properties in the local area; now, Epping Forest Council is the latest to follow suit. With this in mind, Jack Malnick, Property Expert and Managing Director at Sell House Fast has shared his thoughts on…
Read More
Christmas Decorations - Good or Bad for Selling
Breaking News

A More Affordable Christmas for Homebuyers

The latest research from award-winning mortgage adviser, Alexander Hall, has revealed that – despite the government failing to leave any affordability-focused initiatives under the tree in the recent Autumn Budget – this Christmas is shaping up to be a far more positive one for the nation’s homebuyers, as borrowers entering the market today are benefitting…
Read More