Property investors with rising debt problems need to make sure they keep on top of their accounts and tax returns.

Ignoring letters and calls from HM Revenue and Customs about outstanding debt and late tax returns will only make a bad financial situation worse.

Tax is a priority debt and HMRC can and will enforce settlement of any amounts outstanding through the courts that could mean a forced sale of property investments at knockdown prices.

Landords who have not completed rental accounts for previous years need to deal with them urgently, especially if a property that may involve capital gains tax was sold in that time.

Lots of property investors are picking up compliance letters from their doormats claiming tax from property income identifying likely investment property from computer links with the Land Registry and council electoral rolls.

Before considering drastic action, like handing back keys to lenders, insolvency or bankruptcy, look for independent advice and steer away from insolvency firms that charge big fees.

The objective of many insolvency practitioners is to act for the creditors not the debtor.

If you have credit problems, a good place to start putting matters right is with Business Debtline, who offer free, independent advice to the self-employed.

The web site at www.bdl.org.uk is packed with advice and free helpsheets.

Business Debt Line will help you negotiate with creditors or take on the job for you.

Property investors who owe tax need to come to an agreement with HMRC.

Property Investment Expert has negotiated for many clients and found dealing with HMRC straightforward and settlements reasonable.

In many compliance cases, clients who were worried they faced a large tax bill have discovered to their relief they owe little or nothing and in some cases have picked up a refund.