FHL - pre - trading expenses - allowable

[chorne1966]

Hi I'm not sure if this should be dealt with under Income Tax or Property so I've plumped for property but can move if required.

I have an existing furnished holiday let which has been trading for several years. I am just putting together the figures for this for my annual self assessment return (no pressure there then!) I have also established from Oct 1 2019 a second FHL. Going through the figures for the first FHL (18/19) there were certain items such as a sofa and other furniture that was brought in 18/19 for the second property prior to the start of trading in October 2019. Having read the HMRC guidance in https://www.gov.uk/hmrc-internal-manuals/property-income-manual/pim2505 it does suggest that where a business ie my FHL business is already established then the purchase of furniture could be included as an expense despite the letting of this 2nd property occuring until Oct 2019 and obviously in the following tax year (19/20).

Any thoughts would be much appreciated?

Regards

Chris