HMRC Regulatory Update: From May 2026, conveyancers filing SDLT returns must register as tax advisers.
HMRC Regulatory Update: From May 2026, conveyancers filing SDLT returns must register as tax advisers.
Is Your Practice Ready for May 2026?
Whether you plan to register as a tax adviser yourself or partner with a service like SDLT Check, you need to understand your current position.
Use this checklist to assess your eligibility, identify compliance gaps, and plan your approach to the new regulatory environment.
Get Help Interpreting Results →How to Use This Checklist
This checklist covers three scenarios:
- 1Self-registration assessment — If you're considering registering as a tax adviser directly
- 2Partner assessment — If you're considering partnering with a service like SDLT Check
- 3General readiness — Actions every conveyancing practice should take regardless of approach
Work through each section. Mark items as ✓ Complete, ⚠️ Needs Attention, or ✗ Not Met. Your results will indicate your readiness and recommended next steps.
Section 1: Eligibility Conditions (For Self-Registration)
If you plan to register directly with HMRC as a tax adviser, every senior manager in your firm must meet these conditions.
Condition A: Tax Compliance
For yourself and each senior manager:
Result:
- • All items complete → Condition A likely satisfied
- • Any items "Needs attention" → Address before registration
- • Any items "Not met" → Firm may be ineligible for self-registration
Condition B: Professional Standards
Note:
HMRC has not yet published full details of Condition B requirements. This section will be updated when January 2026 guidance is released.
Condition C: AML Registration
Decision Framework
Partner with SDLT Check if:
Self-register if:
Results Interpretation
If Most Items Are ✓ Complete
You're well-prepared for May 2026. Whether you choose to self-register or partner with a service, your practice has the fundamentals in place.
Recommended next step:
Book Consultation →If Several Items Are ⚠️ Needs Attention
You have gaps to address before May 2026. Start working on these now — some (like tax compliance issues) can take months to resolve.
Recommended next step:
Prioritise Condition A compliance. Consider partnering with SDLT Check to reduce the compliance burden.
Book Consultation →If Any Items Are ✗ Not Met
Your practice may face challenges meeting the May 2026 requirements. Partnering with a registered tax adviser service like SDLT Check may be the most practical path.
Recommended next step:
Talk to us about how SDLT Check can solve your May 2026 compliance problem.
Book Urgent Consultation →Need Help?
Our team can walk through this checklist with you and help you understand your options.
Book a Free Consultation →🕐 30-minute call | 📋 Review your specific situation | ✓ No obligation