Non-Standard Construction Mortgages – Perfect Square Financial Limited

Non Standard Construction Mortgages

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YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

Non-Standard Construction Mortgages – What You Need to Know

If you’re considering buying a property that isn’t built using traditional bricks and tiles, you may need a non-standard construction mortgage. These mortgages are designed for homes built with alternative methods or materials, and while they can be a little more complex to secure, we’re here to help guide you through the process.

What Counts as Non-Standard Construction?

A property is considered non-standard if it’s built using anything other than brick or stone with a tiled or slate roof. Common examples include:

Timber-framed properties
Concrete or steel-framed homes
Flat-roofed buildings
Thatched cottages
Prefabricated or modular homes
Listed buildings (particularly Grade I and Grade II)

How Can You Tell If a Property is Non-Standard?

It’s not always easy to identify non-standard construction at a glance. For example, a timber frame might be hidden behind brick cladding. The best way to find out is by:

Asking the estate agent or seller directly
Checking planning or building control records with the local authority
Reviewing the property survey during the purchase process

Can You Get a Mortgage on a Non-Standard Construction Property?

Yes, but the lender will want to fully understand the risks involved. They will assess:

The type and condition of the construction
Your deposit size (a higher deposit often helps)
Any additional paperwork or warranties available

We work with lenders that understand unusual construction types and are open to flexible lending—so we’ll match you with the right one for your circumstances.

Can I Get a Mortgage on a Listed Building?

Yes, although Grade I listed properties can be more difficult. Lenders are typically more comfortable with Grade II buildings, but they’ll want to confirm you understand the planning restrictions involved, as listed properties require special permissions for alterations.

What About Concrete-Built Homes?

It depends on the type and age of the concrete used.

Modern concrete homes, like those using insulated concrete formwork (ICF), are generally accepted.
Older post-war prefab concrete houses, especially those known as Airey homes, can be tricky unless they’ve been repaired with certification.

Speak to us before proceeding—some homes may look fine but won’t be accepted without the correct guarantees

Are Timber-Framed Properties Mortgageable?

Yes—modern and older historic timber-framed homes are usually acceptable. The key concern is properties built between 1920–1965, where lack of vapour barriers may have led to deterioration. A survey and possibly extra paperwork may be needed, but we’ll help you prepare.

Can I Get a Mortgage on a Steel-Framed House?

Yes, but a structural engineer’s report may be required. Steel can occasionally corrode, so lenders like reassurance. A slightly larger deposit may help, but with the right guidance, it’s achievable.

What is a Prefab or Modular Home?

Prefabricated homes are partly constructed in a factory and then assembled on site.
Modular homes are a type of prefab made in fully finished sections—think of it like “giant Lego.”
Lenders vary on how they view these, depending on the materials and build quality. Always check with us before committing.

Can I Get a Mortgage for a Barn Conversion?

Yes, barn conversions are often mortgageable—provided the work meets building regulations and all the correct paperwork is in place. If the conversion is recent, it may count as a new build, in which case the lender might require a warranty or architect’s certificates.