End of financial year is often when New Zealanders start thinking about upgrades around the home, especially spaces connected to work, investment properties or business operations.
If you’ve recently installed blinds or curtains, or you’re planning an upgrade before EOFY, you might be wondering whether window furnishings can be claimed at tax time.
The answer depends on how the space is used, the type of property, and your individual circumstances. In some cases, blinds and curtains may be tax deductible, particularly for investment properties, home offices or business premises.
Here’s a simple guide to understanding when you may be able to claim blinds or curtains on tax in New Zealand.
Can You Claim Blinds or Curtains on Tax?
Potentially, yes.
According to Inland Revenue (IRD), blinds and curtains installed in investment properties or business spaces may be considered depreciable assets depending on how the property is used and your individual circumstances.
This can include:
- Investment properties
- Dedicated home offices
- Commercial or business premises
Because everyone’s financial circumstances are different, it’s always important to speak with an accountant or tax professional for personalised advice.
Claiming Blinds for Investment Properties
If you own an investment property, blinds and curtains installed within the property may be claimable as part of your property expenses.
The IRD generally considers window furnishings such as blinds and curtains to be depreciating assets, meaning the cost is often claimed over several years rather than all at once.
If you’re replacing older or damaged window furnishings to help maintain the property, some costs may also fall under repairs and maintenance, depending on the situation.
Window furnishings can play an important role in:
- Improving tenant comfort
- Enhancing privacy
- Managing heat and glare
- Updating the appearance of the property
- Supporting energy efficiency
Products like blackout roller blinds, curtains and honeycomb blinds are popular choices for investment properties thanks to their practicality, durability and modern appearance.
Can You Claim Blinds for a Home Office?
With flexible and hybrid work continuing across New Zealand, many people are upgrading their home office spaces to improve comfort and productivity.
If you work from home, you may be able to claim a portion of your blinds or curtains as part of your home office expenses.
Generally, the space should:
- Be used regularly for work
- Function as a dedicated work area
- Support your work activities
For example, blinds that help reduce glare on screens, improve privacy or regulate indoor temperature may contribute to creating a more suitable workspace.
Depending on your setup, you may be able to:
- Claim a portion of the cost if the room is shared
- Claim depreciation or expenses for a dedicated home office
Products that can work particularly well in home office spaces include:
- Honeycomb blinds for insulation and temperature control
- Blackout blinds for reducing glare during video calls
- Double roller blinds for flexible light control throughout the day
- Sheer curtains for soft filtered natural light
Smart and Motorised Blinds for Workspaces
Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular in both residential and commercial spaces, and motorised blinds are no exception.
Motorised window furnishings can help improve comfort, convenience and light management throughout the day, particularly in work-focused environments.
Our SmartView motorised blinds allow users to easily adjust light levels, helping reduce screen glare and create a more comfortable workspace with minimal effort.
SmartView motorisation is available across a range of products, including:
If motorised blinds are installed within a dedicated workspace or business environment, they may potentially form part of a claimable expense depending on how the space is used.
Blinds and Curtains for Businesses
If you operate a business from a commercial premises, blinds and curtains installed within the space may also be claimable.
This can include:
- Offices
- Clinics
- Retail stores
- Studios
- Waiting rooms
- Hospitality venues
Window furnishings are often used to improve:
- Privacy
- Comfort
- Sun protection
- Energy efficiency
- Client experience
- Workplace functionality
For example, motorised blinds can help manage changing light conditions throughout the day, while timber venetians or sheer curtains can help create a more refined and welcoming customer environment.
Depending on the setup, these products may be treated as business assets or deductible expenses.
A Few Important Things to Keep in Mind
Tax rules can vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the type of property and how the space is used.
Before making any claim:
- Keep all receipts and invoices
- Maintain accurate records
- Document how the space is used
- Speak with a registered tax professional or accountant
Inland Revenue (IRD) regularly updates its guidance around deductions and depreciation, so it’s important to refer to the latest information when preparing your return.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you claim blinds on tax in New Zealand?
In some situations, yes. Blinds may be claimable for investment properties, home offices or business premises depending on how the space is used and your individual circumstances.
Are curtains tax deductible?
Curtains may potentially be claimed as depreciating assets or business expenses in eligible situations, including rental properties and commercial spaces.
Can landlords claim blinds for rental properties?
Investment property owners may be able to claim blinds or curtains as depreciating assets over time. Some replacement costs may also qualify as repairs and maintenance.
Can I claim home office blinds?
If the blinds are installed in a dedicated home office or help create a suitable working environment, you may be able to claim part of the expense.
Are motorised blinds tax deductible?
Motorised blinds installed within eligible business or work-related spaces may potentially be claimable depending on how the space is used.
Upgrade Your Space Before EOFY
Whether you’re refreshing an investment property, improving your home office or updating a commercial space, the right window furnishings can support comfort, privacy and functionality throughout the year.
Explore our range of made-to-measure blinds and curtains, including motorised solutions, energy-efficient honeycomb blinds and stylish blackout designs, before EOFY arrives. Everything at Tuiss Blinds Online is designed for easy, affordable, DIY.
For the latest tax information, visit Inland Revenue (IRD) or speak with your accountant or tax advisor.
Disclaimer: This article is general in nature and does not constitute financial or tax advice. Always consult with a qualified accountant or tax professional to assess your individual circumstances and eligibility in New Zealand.