Mortgage Lenders for Non-Standard Construction: How to Secure a Mortgage for Your Unique Property

Finding a mortgage for a non-standard construction house can be challenging, as many high-street lenders apply strict criteria when assessing properties that fall outside the conventional brick walls and tiled roof category. However, there are plenty of lenders that specialise in providing mortgages for unusual property types, including Steel frame properties, Timber frame properties, concrete homes, barn conversions, and high-rise blocks.

This guide will explore non-standard construction mortgage lenders, how they assess different property types, and how you can improve your chances of securing a competitive deal.

The article is updated as of March 10, 2025

What is a Non-Standard Construction Property?

A non-standard property type is any home that deviates from traditional brick walls, tiled roofs, and concrete foundations. The most common types of property in this category include:

• Timber frame properties – Homes built with wooden structures instead of brick.

• Steel frame properties – Houses that rely on steel beams, common in post-war construction.

• Concrete homes – Often built using concrete blocks or Prefabricated buildings.

• Flats in blocks or high-rise multi-occupancy residential buildings – These include Tower blocks, tenements in blocks, and authority flats.

• Thatched cottages – Properties with a thatched roof, which can pose building fire safety concerns.

• Glass-walled homes – Modern constructions using glass as a primary structure.

• Coach houses – A home built above garages or other non-residential spaces.

• Leasehold properties – Homes with an unexpired lease term that may require a lease extension.

• Modular homes or green building techniques – Eco-friendly homes built with modern materials.

Since these properties are considered to have additional risk compared to standard homes, many mortgage providers lending in the UK apply stricter terms or require an additional survey to assess structural risk.

Why Are Non-Standard Homes Considered Risky?

Mortgage lenders classify unusual properties as high-risk due to several building factors, including:

• Resale potential – Some homes, such as flats in blocks or duplex houses, may be harder to sell.

• Structural issues – Steel frames, timber frames, and concrete blocks can deteriorate over time.

• Building insurance – Insurers often charge more for non-standard construction house policies.

• Maintenance history – Lack of maintenance can make securing a mortgage difficult.

• Ground rent and lease terms – Leasehold properties with a 56-year unexpired lease may require an extended leaseto be mortgageable.

• Flammable materials – Properties with cladding fire safety concerns require interim fire safety measures pre-remediation details.

Some lenders reject properties that fail to meet normal underwriting requirements, while others consider additional criteria, such as remedial costs, external wall systems, and underfloor structure.

Which Mortgage Lenders Accept Non-Standard Construction Homes?

Mainstream Lenders

Some traditional lenders may finance certain non-standard property types, including:

• Nationwide – May accept Steel frame properties if in good condition.

• Halifax – Accepts concrete homes built under specific repair schemes.

• Barclays – Offers mortgages for properties with flat roofs, subject to valuation.

Specialist Mortgage Lenders

For homes that fall outside mainstream lending criteria, specialist brokers work with lenders offering tailored solutions, including:

• The Mortgage Lender (TML) – Provides mortgages for non-standard construction house applicants.

• Vida Homeloans – Accepts modular homes, eco-homes, and high-rise blocks.

• Together Money – Offers finance for multi-storey/multi-occupancy buildings.

• Kensington Mortgages – Caters to leasehold properties with shorter unexpired lease terms.

How to Secure a Mortgage for a Non-Standard Property

1. Work with a Specialist Mortgage Broker

A market broker, such as NeedingAdvice.co.uk, can connect you with exclusive mortgage experts who understand non-standard construction lenders and lenient criteria for unique properties.

2. Get a Comprehensive Survey

Lenders often require a detailed survey or a mortgage valuation report to assess structural risk. This is particularly important for:

• Steel frame properties – Checking for rust or structural weaknesses.

• Concrete homes – Ensuring no deterioration of concrete blocks.

• Timber houses – Identifying signs of decay or infestation.

3. Meet the Deposit Requirements

• Mainstream lenders may require a minimum 15-30% deposit.

• Specialist finance lenders may require higher deposits (40%) for high-risk borrower profiles.

4. Consider the Mortgage Term and Product Fees

• Fixed-rate mortgages provide stability for first-time buyers.

• Variable-rate mortgages may offer lower initial monthly repayments.

• Some lenders charge higher product fees due to additional risk.

5. Ensure the Property is Insurable

• Check buildings insurance policies to ensure the property can be covered.

• Homes requiring remedial building or EWS1 form receipt may be difficult to insure.

Remortgaging a Non-Standard Construction Property

If you already own a non-standard construction house and need to remortgageRefinancing an existing mortgage with a new mortgage., lenders will assess:

• Property valuation – Does the home meet marketability criteria?

• Ongoing costs – Does the property need expensive maintenance?

• Mortgage deal options – Are there exclusive deals available through a mortgage adviser?

If your home has undergone development schemes or MMC scheme repairs, securing a suitable security for remortgaging may be easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get a mortgage on a steel-framed house?

Yes, but you may need a comprehensive survey to confirm the structure type is mortgageable.

2. Do non-standard homes need an additional survey?

Lenders often request a valuer for advice on structural defects insurance policy needs.

3. What if I have bad credit?

Some non-standard construction mortgage lenders accept bad credit applicants, but business income or household income must meet minimum requirements.

4. Are leasehold properties harder to mortgage?

Yes, especially if the unexpired lease term is less than 56 years. You may need a lease extension.

5. Do I need professional advice?

Yes, consulting a responsible person or Accountable Person for incorrect advice avoidance is crucial.

6. Are high-rise flats harder to mortgage?

Yes, especially those with cladding fire safety concerns or requiring safety measures pre-remediation.

Conclusion

Securing a mortgage for a non-standard property requires understanding lender with criteria, stricter terms, and plenty of lenders that offer tailored solutions. By working with a specialist broker, ensuring the property meets acceptable security, and providing a detailed survey, you can find a mortgage provider that meets your needs with complete confidence.

If you’re looking to secure a non-standard construction mortgage, the best approach is to work with a specialist mortgage broker who understands the complexities involved. At NeedingAdvice.co.uk, we go the extra mile to find competitive deals that suit your unique situation, whether you’re a first-time buyer, property owner, or remortgaging an unusual home.

By taking the right steps—getting a comprehensive survey, meeting minimum requirements, and choosing a lender with lenient criteria—you can successfully secure a mortgage deal even for non-standard property types.

If you need professional advice, contact us today for a free online enquiry. Our exclusive mortgage experts are ready to help you navigate the underwriting process with confidence.