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Expert advice for uninhabitable property mortgages.
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What makes a house uninhabitable for UK mortgage purposes?
There are various reasons why a property might be classed as uninhabitable for mortgage purposes. Some of the things that might make a lender view the home as unfit for human habitation include:
- No kitchen or bathroom.
- A lack of wind or waterproofing.
- Extreme damp or mould issues that may impact occupant health.
- Staircases without handrails contrary to building regulations.
- Properties that cannot be secured.
- Non-standard roofs.
- Japanese knotweed.
- Asbestos.
can you get a mortgage on an uninhabitable property?
It can be tricky to get a mortgage on an uninhabitable property, but there are a variety of other options that can help you finance the property. ‘Bridging finance‘ is the name given to short term loans that provide the cash to fund the building work so that it is habitable enough to get a mortgage.
Common structural problems may be due to subsidence, wall tie failure, or the property may be in need of a damp proof course, in order that it can be brought up to a habitable standard once again.
Whatever the issue, once the building work has been completed, you can apply for a mortgage on the property to pay back the bridging loan. For more information about bridging loans, talk to our team of specialist advisors.
Turning Your Nightmares Into Dreams Realised
Can I get a mortgage on a property with no central heating?
The overall condition of the property will be taken into account during the mortgage lender’s valuation. Whilst not having central heating can contribute to dampness, a lack of heating in itself won’t make a property uninhabitable.
If the property doesn’t have heating, but also doesn’t have a suitable roof, weatherproofing, security, kitchen or bathroom, a lender is likely to decide that it is unfit for human habitation and that will make the property unmortgageable. If you’re not sure whether the property you want to get a mortgage on will be classed as habitable, talk to our expert team. We’ll take the time to understand your situation and recommend the best steps to take.
Can I get a mortgage on a property with asbestos?
Useful links to begin your Mortgage Journey
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Remortgaging
Remortgaging doesn’t have to be tricky, whether you are looking to remortgage to consolidate debt, buy another property or finance home improvements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a mortgage on a property that has Japanese knotweed?
Japanese knotweed is a fast growing plant that can spread rapidly, overtaking a garden in little time and even damaging property. The risk Japanese knotweed poses to drains and foundations can lead many lender’s to reject mortgage applications if this plant is found during the valuation. Despite this, some lenders will be more amenable, and will simply want to work out the extent to which the knotweed threatens the property. If there is an up to date treatment plan in place, you are likely to have more options. For more guidance specific to your prospective home, get in touch with our mortgage advisors!
Will the type of roof on a property affect my chances of getting a mortgage?
Most mortgage lenders will be wary about lending on a property with a non-standard roof, however there are options out there. A standard roof would be something like slate or tile. Other types of roofs that are considered non-standard include:
- Flat roofs.
- Felt Roofs.
- Thatched Roofs.
- Tin Roofs.
Though some lenders might outright refuse your application if the property has a non-standard roof many will be open to the idea provided the roof is in good condition and there is a roof maintenance programme in place.
Can I get a mortgage for a house with structural damage?
Unfortunately, conventional high street mortgage lenders will probably decline your application if the property’s fundamental structure is damaged. If the structural damage prevents the property from being weatherproof or secured, their decision will be cemented further.
Despite this, there are lenders out there who specialise in lending on non-standard homes, so it’s not the end of the world if your chosen property has some damage, structural defects, or is in need of major repairs. The extent of the damage and the cost of repair will likely play a huge role in the amount of options available to you. If the damage is too severe, you may need to look into getting a bridging loan to cover the essential repairs before applying for a mortgage.
If the work to an uninhabitable house requires alteration to the structure of the building, you will usually need Building Regulations approval. Without receiving this from the local building regulation inspector, high street lenders may not be willing to approve a mortgage.
To explore the options open to you, chat to one of our team. A specialist mortgage broker can talk through the property in question in detail, as well as your financial circumstances. Fully informed, we’ll help you move forwards armed with all the insights, tips and tools you need to succeed.
Trusted mortgage advisors for uninhabitable properties.
What Our customers say about us
Our Customers rank us 4.6 out of 5
We feel so fortunate to have found WTBSN
We found WTBSN after landing in a really tricky situation. We were out of term on our current mortgage and our existing broker had exhausted all options to re-mortgage due to the complex nature of our holiday let property (Grade II listed, timber frame construction and above commercial). Working under considerable time pressure due to the financial penalties being imposed by the existing lender, Brian was relentless in his search for a solution that would allow us to refinance a property that was on face value mortgageable. Thankfully, he didn’t give up and nine months later, we completed on the re-finance. We feel so fortunate to have found WTBSN and would like to thank Brian and the team sincerely for going the extra mile. We couldn’t have done it without you!
Rachel Reeves
Simply the best
I will never use another mortgage broker in all my time In property, these guys are the best at communication, customer service and keeping you informed. They are a level above every other broker I’ve come across and they actually get things done.
Emma, Samantha & Ashley have been fantastic in assisting me with 2 mortgages now and they’re superb at what they do. I wouldn’t hesitate to reccommend them to anybody out there who needs a mortgage sorting.
John Burton
I have been dealing with ben
I have been dealing with Ben @ When The Bank Says No. He has been great!! Professional, kept us up to date the whole way and made the entire process so simple. I would most definitely use him again and have already passed his details on to a family member. Thank you for all your help.
Elise
Thank you for your amazing support
Thank you for your amazing support and service during a really difficult time in my life. 5* is just not enough to demonstrate the level of support received. These guys go above and beyond. A personal service, with kindness and compassion. I highly recommend. If you’re struggling with your mortgage, then have a chat to this team. I cannot thank them enough for everything they have done.
Nabila Fowles-Gutierrez
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