Stamp Duty Rates in England and Northern Ireland For Limited Companies
Stamp duty land tax applies to property in England and Northern Ireland. It works on a progressive basis, meaning each portion of the property price is taxed at a different SDLT rate.
The current stamp duty rates are:
- 0% on the portion up to £125,000
- 2% between £125,001 and £250,000
- 5% between £250,001 and £925,000
- 10% between £925,001 and £1.5 million
- 12% above £1.5 million
If you are buying a second home, buy to let property, or purchasing through a limited company, higher rates apply on top of these normal stamp duty rates.
Why Limited Companies Pay Higher Stamp Duty
When a company purchases property through an SPV mortgage, it is treated as buying an additional property by default. This means higher rates apply, even if it is your first investment through a limited company.
You will not qualify for first time buyer relief, and the purchase is assessed under company rules rather than individual ownership. For property investors, this makes stamp duty one of the most important upfront costs to plan for.
Are There Any Changes Coming In 2026?
The Government has already announced SDLT changes that will affect company buying structures, property investors, and non UK resident buyers. Understanding these updates early will help you plan your investment strategy more effectively.
- The nil-rate threshold for main residence purchases is set to fall from £250,000 to £125,000.
- First time buyer relief will be adjusted, with reduced allowances on property price thresholds.
- Higher rates for additional residential properties will increase by 2%.
- SDLT rates on properties over £1.5m will rise further, impacting market value transactions.
For property investors, these changes highlight the importance of planning ahead. Every property purchase has tax implications, and knowing your SDLT liability upfront ensures you stay in control of your finances.
By combining our calculator with tailored mortgage guidance, you’ll have the clarity you need to align property purchases with your long-term goals. Whether you’re acquiring your next property through an SPV or managing existing investments, SPV Mortgages is here to help.