Capital Improvements

[Taxcurious25]

Would the value of the following items be considered improvements that can be added to the basis of a rental property:

1. Wood shutters on all the windows;
2. Floor-to-ceiling walk-in-closet wardrobe;
3. Ceiling fans;
4. Retractable awning; 
5. Wall mounted bathroom cabinet & shelf combo.

Although not an exhaustive list, the examples in IRS Publications 523 & 527 don't include any of the above. That said, the argument would be that they are improvements because they result "in a betterment" to the property, which is language from Publication 527.

[AnnetteB6]

Yes, if these improvements were made prior to placing the rental property in service then the cost could be added to the basis.