Non-Standard Construction Mortgages
Non-standard construction mortgages for timber frame, concrete, steel frame, prefab, and system-built properties - from specialist lenders who assess unusual construction types individually rather than applying a blanket exclusion.
Specialist assessment for unusual construction
Most standard mortgage lenders require properties to be of brick or stone construction with a pitched tile or slate roof. Timber frame, concrete, steel frame, prefab, and system-built properties - often labelled 'non-standard construction' - are declined automatically by mainstream lenders. Specialist lenders assess these construction types individually, considering the specific type, age, condition, and structural survey findings.
Every non-standard construction type placed
Timber Frame Properties
Modern timber frame construction - built since the 1980s and certified to current building standards - is accepted by a growing number of specialist lenders. Older timber frame requires more specific lender criteria and structural survey evidence.
Concrete System-Built Properties
Wimpey No-Fines, Cornish Units, Airey Houses, Laing Easiform, and other concrete system-built types. Some types have PRC (Prefabricated Reinforced Concrete) repair certificates that materially affect mortgage availability.
Steel Frame Properties
Steel frame construction - including Unity, Atholl, and other steel-framed system types - accepted by specialist lenders who can commission appropriate structural surveys to confirm condition and suitability.
Converted and Non-Residential Properties
Former commercial, industrial, or agricultural buildings converted to residential use - barns, warehouses, offices - often have non-standard construction elements requiring specialist mortgage lenders.
Listed Buildings and Non-Standard
Listed buildings frequently combine non-standard construction with heritage restrictions on improvement works. Specialist lenders who understand listed building constraints and are comfortable with the construction type are a smaller but real panel.
Structural Survey Requirement
Most specialist non-standard construction lenders require a full structural survey (RICS Level 3 Building Survey) in addition to the standard mortgage valuation. We co-ordinate the survey appointment as part of the application process.
How it works
Property and construction details
Tell us the property type, construction method, age, and any existing structural survey findings. We identify which specialist lenders are experienced with your specific construction type.
Structural survey co-ordination
We arrange a RICS Level 3 Building Survey alongside the mortgage valuation where the lender requires it - both booked simultaneously to avoid timeline delays.
Application and underwriting
Specialist non-standard construction applications are manually underwritten. We present the structural survey alongside the application and manage any underwriter queries about the construction type.
Mortgage offer and completion
Typical timeline: 4 to 6 weeks from full application to mortgage offer. Additional time may be required where structural surveys reveal issues requiring further investigation.
Buying or remortgaging a non-standard construction property?
Tell us the property type and construction. We identify the right specialist lender - same working day response.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a mortgage on a timber frame house?
Yes. Modern timber frame construction is accepted by specialist lenders. Older timber frame requires more specific criteria and structural survey evidence, but options exist for most timber frame properties in good condition.
What is the difference between a standard and non-standard construction mortgage?
Standard construction is brick or stone walls with a pitched tile or slate roof. Non-standard is anything outside this - timber frame, concrete, steel frame, prefab, flat roof, or thatched roof. Non-standard construction requires specialist lenders and typically a full structural survey.
Does a PRC repair certificate help for concrete properties?
Yes significantly. A PRC certificate from an approved installer confirms that a concrete system-built property has been repaired to a standard accepted by specialist lenders. Without a PRC certificate, the mortgage panel for most concrete system-built types is very narrow.
Are there mortgages for former council non-standard construction properties?
Yes. Ex-council non-standard construction properties - Airey, Wimpey No-Fines, and similar - are placed with specialist lenders who are experienced with the specific construction types found in ex-council stock.
Do I always need a full structural survey for non-standard construction?
Most specialist non-standard construction lenders require a RICS Level 3 Building Survey (full structural survey) in addition to the standard valuation. Some lenders will accept a homebuyer report for lower-risk construction types.
Explore related pages
Listed Building Mortgages
Grade I and Grade II listed building mortgage specialists.
Concrete Construction Mortgages
Specific guidance for concrete system-built properties.
Renovation Mortgages
Finance for properties requiring significant works.
Mortgage Bad Credit
Specialist options with adverse credit history.