Maximise Your Tax Return With an Investment Property Depreciation Schedule
If you own a residential investment property in Australia, you could be entitled to thousands of dollars in tax savings every financial year. A depreciation schedule allows you to claim the natural wear and tear of your property and its depreciating assets, significantly reducing your taxable income and increasing your overall return.
At ACP Quantity Surveyors, we prepare ATO-compliant property depreciation schedules tailored to your property. Whether you’ve just bought your first investment or are growing your portfolio, we’ll help you unlock the full tax benefits you’re entitled to—backed by decades of experience in tax depreciation and trusted by investors, accountants and property professionals nationwide.
What Is Property Depreciation?
Depreciation is the decline in the value of a building and its assets over time. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows property investors to claim tax deductions for this loss in value, making it one of the best non-cash deductions available.
There are two key categories of depreciation:
- Division 43 – Capital Works Deductions
This includes the structural components of the building—walls, ceilings, roofs, brickwork, and other construction elements. The deductions are based on the property’s original construction costs, including any qualifying renovations. - Division 40 – Plant and Equipment Deductions
These cover removable or mechanical items known as plant and equipment assets, such as carpets, blinds, appliances, air-conditioning systems and hot water units.
With a depreciation schedule tailored to your property, you can claim these deductions each financial year—often amounting to thousands in tax savings over the life of the investment.
Why Investors Need a Depreciation Schedule
Even if your property is negatively geared, claiming depreciation can help offset your rental income and increase your tax return. Depreciation is one of the most significant tax deductions available for many investors, yet it’s often overlooked.
Here’s why savvy property investors invest in a property tax depreciation schedule:
- Increase cash flow from your investment property
- Maximise deductions from both capital works and depreciating assets
- Ensure full ATO compliance and peace of mind at tax time.
- Improve the return on your investment over time.
Whether you own a brand-new build, an older home or a recently renovated apartment, it’s worth finding out what you could be entitled to claim.
What’s Included in Our Depreciation Schedules?
Your tax depreciation schedule is a comprehensive, accountant-ready report outlining the amount you can claim on your investment property year by year.
Each schedule includes:
- Full breakdown of Division 40 (plant and equipment assets) and Division 43 deductions
- Up to 40 years of claimable depreciation
- Adjustments for partial ownership periods or shared ownership
- Inclusion of recent renovations, including updated construction costs
- Compatible with all major accounting software
- ATO-compliant formatting and terminology
We tailor every property tax depreciation schedule to your property’s specifications so you can be confident you’re claiming every cent you’re legally entitled to.
Why Use Us for Investment Property Depreciation
We make it easy to claim depreciation with confidence. With over 35 years of experience and a nationwide network of qualified quantity surveyors, we offer the expertise and support you need to get the most from your investment property.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- No savings = no fee guarantee
If we don’t identify enough deductions to make the schedule worthwhile, you don’t pay. - Fixed, transparent pricing
No hidden costs or unexpected charges—just simple, up-front quotes. - Fast turnaround Australia-wide
We understand that deadlines matter. You’ll receive your report fast—typically within 5–10 business days. - ATO-compliant and accountant-preferred
Every report is prepared per the current legislation and ready to lodge with your accountant.
Easy process from start to finish
We handle the inspection, analysis and reporting so you can focus on your investment.
Our Process
Claiming depreciation shouldn’t be complicated. Here’s how we work:
- Get a free estimate
Submit your property details online or over the phone, and we’ll provide an estimate of your potential claim amount. - We conduct a detailed inspection
One of our experienced quantity surveyors will assess your property in person or remotely (depending on location and access).
We prepare and deliver your schedule
You’ll receive your final depreciation schedule, ready to share with your accountant and start claiming.
Investment Property Depreciation FAQs
Can I claim depreciation on older investment properties?
Yes, older properties can still be eligible for capital works deductions under Division 43. Even if plant and equipment deductions are limited for second-hand properties, you can still claim for structural elements like walls and roofs—especially if the property was built after 1987 or has been renovated. These deductions can amount to thousands over the life of the property. Learn more on our FAQ page.
Can I claim depreciation on a property I’ve renovated?
Renovations typically qualify for depreciation. Structural improvements fall under capital works, while appliances and fittings are considered plant and equipment assets. Even if renovations were completed years ago, you can still claim based on the remaining practical life of those items.
What if I’ve owned the property for several years already?
You can still get a depreciation schedule, and your accountant may be able to amend past returns (usually up to two years). We assess your property’s history and condition to identify depreciating assets and unclaimed deductions to which you’re entitled. See more common investor questions.
How much does a depreciation schedule cost?
We offer fixed pricing based on your property type and location. It’s a one-time, tax-deductible fee—and in most cases, the schedule pays for itself within the first financial year of claims. If we can’t identify worthwhile deductions, you don’t pay. Request a quote to get started.
When should I get a depreciation schedule?
The best time is when your property becomes income-producing, but it’s never too late. We can create a schedule for new or older properties and include any construction costs or updates you’ve made. If you’re unsure, get in touch—we’ll guide you through the process.
Ready to Find Out How Much You Can Claim?
Every financial year without a depreciation schedule is money left on the table. Let our Quantity Surveyors help you maximise your investment and simplify your tax return with a schedule that pays for itself.
Get your free estimate today. Call us on 1300 550 311 and take the next step towards smarter property investing.