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Cost Segregation Quality: What CPAs Should Look For

Feb 2026 5 min read

Not all cost segregation reports are created equal. For CPAs, quality is whether the file can withstand scrutiny—not marketing claims.

RentalWriteOff delivers engineering-level documentation depth in a cost segregation documentation package—typically in 2 business days, for under $800, with about 5 minutes of client time. CPAs can submit through our CPA Portal, partnership programs are available, and audit support is included with every report we deliver.

CPA red flags

  • No methodology narrative
  • Basis not reconciled to tax records
  • Aggressive allocations without support
  • Generic schedules that don’t reflect the property
  • No bonus depreciation applicability support
  • No audit support

CPA green flags

  • Clear identifiers and basis framework
  • Specific asset schedule with consistent logic
  • Plain-language methodology
  • Supporting documentation references
  • Bonus depreciation applicability analysis
  • Audit support included

Documenting CPA due diligence

Retain the report, document list, and a brief internal memo noting basis source, placed-in-service facts, and any judgment calls.

What we need (5-minute intake)

We only need basic property information (property address, property type, placed-in-service date, cost basis/purchase price, and whether the property is furnished), plus any supporting documents the client has available.

CPA Portal intake is even simpler: owner name (individual or LLC), property address, purchase price/cost basis, and date placed in service.

CPA Portal: rentalwriteoff.com/cpa-portal

Supporting documentation (optional, but recommended)

All supporting documents are optional. Providing more documentation improves rigor, documentation depth, and audit defensibility.

Recommended (improves rigor and defensibility)

  • Appraisal Report (recommended)
  • Closing Disclosure or Settlement Statement
  • Renovation Receipts & Invoices
  • Property Survey or Site Plan
  • Property Photos (interior & exterior) — exclude photos from the rental listing

CPA Portal and partnership programs

RentalWriteOff is built for CPA workflows. CPAs can submit on behalf of clients through our CPA Portal, receive deliverables quickly, and scale cost segregation as part of tax planning through generous partnership programs.

Reports are typically delivered in 2 business days, bonus depreciation applicability is included, and audit support is included with every report we deliver.