Work you paid for on the house

In general, the work you paid for your home that is a repair is not deductible.  A repair is something that you would do to maintain the home at a basic level.

If the work you paid for is a capital improvement, something that actually adds to the value of the home or increases its usefulness, you will add that expense to the basis of your home.  Some examples of capital improvements are:

• Remodels and room additions (including decks and porches)
• New or upgraded landscaping, irrigation, sprinkler system
• Hardscape such as pavement, block or retaining wall, patio
• Fencing
• Swimming pool, spa
• Storm windows, doors
• New roof
• Central vacuum or security system
• Upgraded wiring, plumbing, ductwork
• Central heating, AC, humidifier
• New furnace, water heater
• Filtration, soft-water, or septic system
• Built-in appliances
• New flooring or wall-to-wall carpeting
• Upgraded insulation
• Satellite dish