Introduction

Stamp Duty Advice Bureau (SDAB) is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and diligence in providing stamp duty advice and services to our clients. This Code of Conduct is inspired by and aligned with the standards set forth by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) for tax agents and advisers. It outlines our expectations from our agents and advisers, the standards we adhere to in our professional conduct, and our commitment to compliance and excellence in all interactions with HMRC and our clients.

  1. Scope and Purpose

This Code of Conduct applies to all individuals and entities within SDAB acting as tax agents or advisers, in dealing with stamp duty land tax affairs. It encapsulates HMRC’s expectations and our dedication to maintaining and exceeding these standards, ensuring the utmost level of service and integrity.

  1. Our Commitment to HMRC

2.1 Integrity and Honesty

  • We pledge to provide HMRC with accurate and necessary information promptly.
  • Our agents will share relevant information with clients and other agents involved, ensuring transparency and coherence in the tax affairs we manage.
  • We assert our independence from HMRC, clarifying our role as professional advisers, not representatives or endorsers of HMRC.

2.2 Professional Competence and Due Care

  • Our agents maintain up-to-date knowledge of tax laws relevant to stamp duty and strive to prevent errors in tax calculations or claims.
  • We commit to advising clients correctly, maintaining security over client information, and using accurate third-party inputs.
  • Any suspicions of tax fraud or evasion are promptly reported to HMRC.

2.3 Professional Behaviour

  • We ensure our tax affairs are correct and adhere to all relevant laws and regulations.
  • Our interactions with HMRC are cooperative, courteous, and professional, respecting all guidelines and procedures.
  • We engage with clients professionally, adhering to the latest HMRC guidelines regarding income tax repayments and client interactions.

  1. Client Engagement and Services

3.1 Clear Communication and Transparency

  • We provide clear, fair, and understandable terms of engagement to our clients, ensuring they comprehend the scope, costs, and nature of the services we offer.
  • Our fee structure is transparent, and we ensure clients understand how tax repayments will be handled and the rights they have within our professional relationship.

3.2 Support and Accessibility

  • SDAB is committed to making our services accessible to all clients, including those with additional needs, by providing extra support and making reasonable adjustments as necessary.

  1. Tax Planning Standards

  • We advise on tax planning within the bounds of the law, ensuring our strategies are based on a realistic assessment of the facts and the law.
  • Our tax planning advice is transparent, and we do not promote tax avoidance.

  1. Monitoring and Compliance

  • SDAB actively monitors adherence to this Code of Conduct, ensuring our agents and advisers maintain the highest standards.
  • We take immediate corrective action if standards are not met, upholding our commitment to integrity and professionalism.

  1. Collaboration with Professional Bodies

  • While this Code of Conduct aligns with HMRC’s standards, we also respect and adhere to the standards set by professional regulatory bodies, ensuring our agents and advisers meet all ethical and professional requirements.

Conclusion

The Stamp Duty Advice Bureau is dedicated to upholding the principles of integrity, competence, and professionalism in all our dealings. This Code of Conduct serves as our pledge to our clients, HMRC, and the wider community, ensuring we provide the highest standard of tax advice and service.