A consultation has just been set up by the independent Office for Tax Simplification (OTS) to find out how it can make landlords’ tax issues easier and understandable.

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The OTS has uploaded an online survey with a Call for Evidence to hear landlords’ thoughts on how taxation of rental income can be made simpler.

Besides wanting to hear from landlords the OTS also welcomes views from small businesses, professional advisers and industry organisations about which issues of property income taxation they feel are too complicated and extremely difficult to follow correctly.

OTS has also asked for views on how to improve the complex labyrinth from landlords at the receiving end; the survey will be open until June 5th.

OTS Tax Director Bill Dodwell, says: “HMRC data shows that over two million individuals receive property rental income and many more now own property companies. For some people this may be a business, for others an investment and for some almost an accidental activity as they rent out their home as they move.”

Dodwell continues: “The Office of Tax Simplification is conducting a review of property income. How easy is it to understand the rules and report the right amount of income and qualifying expenses to HMRC. Could there be simpler rules?

“Could intermediaries, such as letting agents or rental platforms play a role in helping landlords report?