Homeowners Left in Limbo Over Spray Foam Insulation: A Growing Concern
The Scale of the Issue
Spray foam insulation, touted as a solution to improve energy efficiency and reduce heat loss, was heavily promoted under the now-defunct Green Homes Grant scheme. The scheme provided full subsidies for installations to qualifying homeowners, making it a popular choice. It is estimated that as many as 250,000 homes in the UK now have spray foam insulation, much of it installed under government programs.
However, a recent BBC investigation highlighted that a quarter of the UK's largest mortgage lenders refuse to lend on properties with spray foam in their roof spaces. Concerns over poor installations, moisture retention, and the potential decay of roof timbers have left many properties effectively un-mortgageable.
Homeowners' Struggles: Real Stories
Robbie's Dilemma
Robbie Anderson and his family are among those affected. In 2021, they had spray foam insulation installed for free under the Green Homes Grant scheme. This year, they tried to sell their home in Nottingham, only to have the sale fall through when the buyers' lender rejected the property due to the insulation.
Despite the installation being carried out by a Trustmark-approved installer and certified by the British Board of Agrément (BBA), the buyers' mortgage provider demanded an insurance-backed warranty of at least 10 years. Robbie's warranty was only two years, a standard for the industry. Now, Robbie faces a £4,000 removal bill and feels the government should take accountability for the issue.
Philippa's PredicamentPhilippa, another homeowner from Wiltshire, also had her spray foam insulation fully funded by the Green Homes Grant. She accepted an offer on her property but faced issues when the buyer's lender, Nationwide, required additional documentation. The delay spooked the buyers, causing them to withdraw their offer. Unable to afford removal, Philippa has reduced her asking price to offset potential costs for future buyers, describing the experience as feeling "conned by the government."
What Is Spray Foam Insulation?
Spray foam insulation, which has been in use for decades, comes in two types:
- Closed-cell foam: Rigid once set, it provides superior thermal insulation but may restrict air circulation, potentially causing timber decay if poorly installed.
- Open-cell foam: Softer and more breathable, it is generally safer but still requires careful application to avoid moisture trapping.
Experts, including chartered building surveyor Geoff Hunt, emphasise that properly installed open-cell foam on sound roofs does not inherently cause damage. However, its growing popularity and inconsistent application standards have left many lenders hesitant, particularly when foam is applied directly to roof tiles.
Calls for Action
The issue has prompted Liberal Democrat MP Tom Gordon to call for "decisive action" and support for affected homeowners. In a letter to Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, he urged the government to address the unintended financial burden on families and work with installation companies to develop clear, enforceable standards for spray foam insulation.
Additionally, Rico Wojtulewicz of the National Federation of Builders has criticised the government for overlooking the long-term implications of using spray foam as a quick fix for energy efficiency. He advocates for retrofitting alternatives that balance environmental goals with housing market stability.
Looking Ahead
The Department for Housing claims it is consulting with lenders and relies on the expertise of valuers and surveyors to address concerns. While it ensures that government schemes use Trustmark-registered installers, many homeowners remain unconvinced and burdened by costly solutions, such as insulation removal.
This situation underscores the need for improved regulations and clearer communication to prevent further homeowners from feeling betrayed by well-intentioned but poorly executed policies.
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