If I bought a house in 2018 that included energy saving items, can I claim it?

[brianpoon92]

I bought a brand new home last year and it came with "newer" improvements installed. The Turbotax program indicated some items I might qualify to claim. I remember being given a list of items in the house with price costs for those items in the paperwork, but before I go digging and finding things, I'd like to know if I can even deduct those. The house was like a model home and we bought it after it was completely done. Since it came as part of the house, which is brand new, would I be able to claim it or must I be the one to purchase that item first (and not the builder)?

[TomK · Accepted solution]

Maybe.  Pay particular attention to "Nonbusiness Energy Property Tax Credit (Expired December 31, 2017)" section in the article below.

Energy Tax Credit: Which Home Improvements Qualify? https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/home-ownership/energy-tax-credit-which-home-improvements-qualif...

[TomK]

Please see updated answer.

[brianpoon92]

I see... the 2018 tax year is limited to certain improvements only. I guess part of my question is also who can claim it if it was built into a brand new house- the buyer of the house or the builder? or both? 🙂

[TomK]

I'm sorry... if it's deductible, YOU can claim it as the new homebuyer.

[brianpoon92]

Awesome! Unfortunately, I bought my house after Nonbusiness Energy Property Tax Credit expired, but this is great to know for future reference! Thank you!!