'Tax benefits through timely asbestos removal'

Last week, Accon avm reported that farmers often postpone asbestos removal for too long. Harm Jan Schipper, senior agricultural advisor at Accon avm, explains why. "The agenda of the construction companies is getting full."

According to Accon avm, it is beneficial to take action now, because of the asbestos ban in 2024. What exactly does that mean?
“The asbestos ban means that there should be no asbestos at all on farms by 2024. This process started about 30 years ago, due to the various health risks. For many farmers it will feel like a mandatory investment, which they feel they cannot afford. having to pay for it."

In the same report, it also emerged that asbestos remediation is being postponed for too long. Why is that?
"For many farmers 2024 seems far away† The remediation of asbestos often yields no return and is only a major cost item. The costs are easily between €50.000 and €200.000 per company. That makes it a big hurdle. There are also many farmers who have started the remediation, but continue to postpone the last part. Another group is saving up for a while and plans to replace the entire barn and/or tool shed in 1 go."

If farmers do wait, how much will it cost them?
"The insurance premiums increase for companies that still have asbestos roofs. Construction companies are also increasingly asking for asbestos removal. This has everything to do with the growing economy. In addition, the construction companies' agendas are also becoming full."

There is also a tax benefit to be gained from timely asbestos removal. How about that?
"An improvement of the property must be put on the balance sheet. The depreciation of that improvement must be spread over 20 years. However, it must be noted that when the improvement is activated, it sometimes does not result in depreciation. This is because the WOZ value of the property is not increased. Furthermore, the depreciation on a commercial building is limited to 50% of the (new) WOZ value. However, the difference between improving the property and major maintenance is not always clear. to conclude with the tax authorities."

"On the other hand, you can charge maintenance that same year against the profit of that year and that can therefore provide a tax advantage. Asbestos remediation is therefore best spread over several years, preferably in the years with better results."

What is the best way to start with asbestos abatement?
"First visualize the desired situation of the company buildings. Think about the volumes that will be built in the future and/or whether the insulation and layout can be improved. Also check, for example, whether solar panels fit into the business plan. Try the cost item of asbestos removal by simultaneously making an investment in improving your company, which can be done with the help of various subsidies for solar panels, LED lighting and insulation, among other things."

Anne-Jan Doorn

Anne Jan Doorn is an arable expert at Boerenbusiness. He writes about the various arable farming markets and also focuses on the land and energy market.

aj.doorn@boerenbusiness. Nl

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