Frequently Asked Questions

  • What does this property depreciation calculator do?

    The Tax Depreciation Calculator aims to provide you - the investor - with an estimate of the likely tax depreciation deductions available on certain properties.

  • How does it work?

    Our Calculator searches for similar properties across our extensive database and creates an estimate based on these actual properties.

  • Why is this information useful?

    Most investors don't think about depreciation until after they have purchased a property. Having this information up front helps you make a more informed decision as to which property to buy.

  • What is so special about this Tax Depreciation Calculator?

    Over two years in development, we believe our Tax Depreciation Calculator is so unique and advanced - we have applied for a patent on the concept. This is the first Calculator to draw on real properties to determine an accurate estimate. It allows you to figure out the likely tax depreciation deduction on your next investment property. By factoring this amount into your decision-making, the Tax Depreciation Calculator provides the “missing link” in the property investment equation.

  • How accurate is this Property Depreciation Calculator?

    All properties are different, so no result can be 100% accurate. However, we believe this Calculator is as good as it gets based on current available data on thousands of properties we've inspected. As our database expands, so will the amount of properties we have access to. We have also developed a “Barometer” to assess the degree of accuracy. All results in this Calculator have been rounded to the nearest thousand.

  • How does the Tax Depreciation Calculator “Barometer” work?

    The higher the rating, the greater the degree of accuracy! For instance if your property receives a Bronze rating, it means the Calculator has only been able to find a limited amount of properties that match your criteria. However, if you receive a Platinum rating, the Tax Depreciation Calculator has been able to find a wide range of similar properties. This increases the rate of accuracy. We must stress there is no 100% guarantee.

  • What types of properties are excluded from the Tax Depreciation Calculator?

    The Tax Depreciation Calculator does not include properties that are renovated or ones that are fully furnished. We believe this will skew the results.

  • How much does it cost to use the Tax Depreciation Calculator?

    Our calculator is completely free to use.

    Make a Tax Depreciation Calculation

  • Can I use this estimate within my tax return?

    No. In order to satisfy the Australian Taxation Office and the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors guidelines, the property MUST be inspected. A complete breakdown of plant and equipment must be provided and the capital works allowance must be properly assessed for your individual property.

  • What does it mean if I press the “Calculate” button and nothing happens?

    This means there were no properties similar to your criteria. Contact us for a verbal estimate or alternatively, we can prepare a report on your actual property.

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  • The numbers don't seem to be correct, what do I do?

    Whilst we have tried our best to get this data as accurate as possible, there may be occasional discrepancies when cross-referencing so much information. Please send an email to and we will tend to this matter with speed.

  • How have you defined each property category?

    Properties have been defined according to the following broad definitions:

    • House: Any freestanding residential property
    • Unit: A residential strata titled unit in a building with no lift
    • Highrise: A residential strata titled unit in a building with a lift
    • Commercial Suite: A strata titled office within a commercial complex of many suites
    • Industrial Suite: A strata titled industrial unit within a complex of many industrial units
    • Industrial building: A wholly owned freestanding industrial building on one title
    • Commercial building: A wholly owned freestanding commercial building on one title
    • Townhouse: A strata titled residential building up to two levels above ground, the property may be adjoining other units within the complex.

    Tax Depreciation Calculator

  • What does the “years” column represent?

    Each year represents a full financial year. This calculator provides an estimate of the likely allowances on the basis you are going to settle on that property today. So, for instance, Year 1 represents the amount you can claim over the next 365 days if you purchased a similar property to data you have already entered in.

    Tax Depreciation Calculator

  • What does the Diminishing Value and Prime cost method mean?

    Both terms refer to the way in which Plant and Equipment is depreciated in accordance with the ATO guidelines. The Diminishing Value method accelerates the allowances in the earlier years, where as the Prime Cost method evenly spreads the allowances out.

    Tax Depreciation Calculator

  • How do I know the age of the property?

    In this field we need to know the year of construction commencement for your property. If you don't know this answer the relevant local council may be of assistance to you.

    Tax Depreciation Calculator