Everyone’s talking about the HMRC tax adviser registration requirements. Fewer people are talking about what they mean for your transparency obligations.
From May 2026 onwards, every conveyancing firm dealing with SDLT must register with HMRC as a tax adviser. The profession pushed back but the government didn’t move, so compliance is the only option.
But registration is just the visible part of the challenge.
Whether you’re regulated by the SRA or the CLC, the transparency obligation is the same. Clear, accurate pricing published prominently, understandable before a client instructs you. The SRA updated its guidance in April 2025. The CLC launched a thematic review of transparency compliance in early 2026. Both regulators are actively looking.
The transparency trap
Most external SDLT advisers charge more for complex transactions, high value properties, or unusual structures, which means your own pricing becomes harder to present cleanly. You can publish ranges and caveats, but the more variables you introduce, the less straightforward the client experience becomes.
Firms end up in one of two uncomfortable positions – pricing that is technically published, but difficult for clients to follow, or a headline figure that changes once the transaction is underway. Neither is what the rules are asking for, but there is a better way.
Compass doesn’t do tiers
Using our Concierge service means one flat fee for calculation and submission with Compass as the named tax agent.
Every transaction. Regardless of value, complexity, location, or structure for residential or commercial properties. No uplifts. No reclassification after file review. No surprises on your own invoice.
Transparent pricing for clients starts with transparent pricing from suppliers.
No More Tiers.
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