Incentives!
A GUIDE TO THE FEDERAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION TAX INCENTIVES PROGRAM FOR INCOME-PRODUCING PROPERTIES
Program Essentials Application Basics The Review Process Meeting the Standards for Rehabilitation Avoiding Incompatible Work

Some eligible and ineligible project expenses

Rehabilitation of a historic theater in New York, New York, involved repair of its elaborate ceilings. Photo: NPS files

Rehabilitation of a historic theater in New York, New York, involved repair of its elaborate ceilings. Photo: NPS files

What expenses are eligible and what expenses are ineligible to receive credit for which the 20% tax credit can be claimed in a rehabilitation project?

Answer

Some eligible items include:
Walls
Partitions
Floors
Ceilings
Permanent coverings, such as paneling or tiles
Windows and doors
Components of central air conditioning or heating systems
Plumbing and plumbing fixtures
Electrical wiring and lighting fixtures
Chimneys
Stairs
Escalators, elevators, sprinkler systems, fire escapes
Other components related to the operation or maintenance of the building

Some ineligible items include:

Appliances
Cabinets
Carpeting (if tacked in place and not glued)
Decks (not part of original building)
Demolition costs (removal of a building on property site)
New construction costs or enlargement costs (increase in total volume)
Fencing
Feasibility studies
Financing fees
Furniture
Landscaping
Leasing expenses
Outdoor lighting remote from building
Parking lot
Paving
Planters
Porches and porticos (not part of original building)
Retaining walls
Sidewalks
Signage
Storm sewer construction costs
Window treatments

Program Essentials: Beginning work without NPS approval

 
National Park Service