Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is a tax you pay to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) when you buy property or land in England or Northern Ireland over a certain price.
The amount you pay depends on the price of the property, what type it is (residential or non-residential), and whether you already own another property.
Who Pays SDLT?
You must pay SDLT if you:
- Buy a freehold property
- Buy a new or existing leasehold
- Buy property through a shared ownership scheme
- Are transferred land or property in exchange for payment (including taking on a mortgage)
The tax is due within 14 days of completion. Your solicitor or conveyancer will usually handle the calculation and payment for you.
SDLT Standard Residential Rates in England & Northern Ireland
| From – To | Rate (until 31 March 2025) | Rate (from 1 Apr 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Up to £125,000 | 0 % (previous standard nil band: up to £250k) | 0 % |
| £125,001 – £250,000 | 0 % (relief applied under temporary SDLT) | 2 % |
| £250,001 – £925,000 | 5 % (standard rate unchanged) | 5 % |
| £925,001 – £1.5 million | 10 % | 10 % |
| Over £1.5 million | 12 % | 12 % |
If you already own another residential property, you usually pay an extra 3% on top of the standard rates. This includes buy-to-let properties, holiday homes, and most second homes.
Example: Buying a £300,000 Home (Standard Purchase)
- First £250,000 → 0% = £0
- Next £50,000 → 5% = £2,500
- Total SDLT = £2,500
Example with Additional Property Surcharge
- First £250,000 → 3% = £7,500
- Next £50,000 → 8% = £4,000
- Total SDLT = £11,500
