Can You Insure a House with Spray Foam Insulation?
Spray foam insulation was popular across the UK, especially among homeowners looking to cut energy bills and reduce heat loss. However, it's also created a wave of concern—particularly when it comes to securing insurance or a mortgage. So, can you insure a house with spray foam insulation? The honest answer: it depends on the circumstances.
In this post, we'll break down why spray foam insulation can be an issue, what insurers and lenders are looking for, and how Countrywide Roofing and Insulation can help if you're facing complications due to spray foam.
What Is Spray Foam Insulation?
Spray foam is a chemical-based insulation that expands on contact, sealing gaps and creating a thermal barrier. It's especially common in lofts and roof spaces and comes in two main forms:
Open Cell Spray Foam – Softer and less dense. It allows some breathability but absorbs moisture more easily.
Closed-cell spray Foam -- much denser and rigid, providing better insulation but potentially trapping moisture.
While both types can boost energy efficiency, the problems often arise from how and where they're applied—particularly in older roofs where timber ventilation is crucial.
Why Are Insurers Cautious?
One of the main concerns is that spray foam can hide the condition of the underlying roof structure. Closed cell foam, for example, forms a hard layer that prevents visual inspection of the timbers. Worse still, it can trap moisture against the wood, leading to rot, damp, and structural damage—all of which are red flags for insurers and mortgage providers.
In fact, a 2021 report by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) revealed that up to 250,000 UK homes could be affected by complications from spray foam insulation.
Even more telling: around 70% of homes with spray foam insulation in the loft fail to meet the requirements of mortgage valuations, according to industry estimates. That figure alone should give any homeowner pause.
Can You Still Get Home Insurance?
Many insurers will assess homes with spray foam insulation on a case-by-case basis. You might be asked to provide:
- A full survey of the roof space
- Reports confirming there's no rot or damp
- Evidence that the insulation meets building regulations
However, if the insulation is old, poorly applied, or showing signs of failure, insurers may decline cover entirely. That's why more homeowners are now turning to professional spray foam removal.
Why Spray Foam Removal Might Be the Right Move
If you're struggling to sell your home, remortgage, or get buildings insurance due to spray foam, having it removed can be a smart, long-term solution. At Countrywide Roofing and Insulation, we specialise in safe and effective spray foam removal, with expertise in both open-cell spray foam removal and closed-cell spray foam removal.
Our service includes:
- Thorough Roof Assessments – To determine the condition of the foam and any damage underneath.
- Professional Removal – We use specialist tools to remove spray foam carefully without damaging your roof structure.
- Ventilation & Roof Checks – After removal, we ensure your roof can breathe properly again.
- Documentation – We provide evidence of removal for mortgage and insurance purposes.
Think of Spray Foam Like a Painted Windscreen
To put it simply, imagine if someone painted over your car's windscreen. Sure, the glass might still be fine underneath, but you'd have no way of checking, and you wouldn't feel safe driving it. That's how surveyors and insurers often see spray foam. It hides what lies beneath, and that uncertainty can cause major issues.
Why Choose Countrywide Roofing and Insulation?
With years of experience in roofing and insulation, we're fully equipped to handle spray foam removal safely and efficiently. Our team is trained to work closely with surveyors and insurance providers, ensuring your property ticks all the right boxes after the job is done.
"The team at Countrywide were brilliant. They removed the spray foam from our loft and helped us get the insurance sorted. Couldn't have asked for a better service."
— J. Thomas, Bristol
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Not in every case, but it's becoming increasingly common. Many insurers won't offer cover until a survey confirms that your roof is structurally sound. Removal is often the most straightforward way to clear the issue.
Q2: How much does spray foam removal cost?
A: It depends on the size of the area and the type of foam, but most projects range between £1,500 and £4,000. We offer free, no-obligation surveys and quotes.
Q3: Is spray foam illegal in the UK?
A: No, it's not illegal—but it must be installed correctly and in the right circumstances. The controversy arises when it's used in older or poorly ventilated roof spaces.
Q4: How long does the removal process take?
A: Most jobs are completed in 1–3 days, depending on the extent of the foam and any damage underneath.
Q5: Can I re-insulate after removal?
A: Yes. We'll recommend and install more suitable options like mineral wool or breathable insulation boards—solutions that won't cause mortgage or insurance headaches later.
Don't Let Spray Foam Hold You Back
Don't let hidden issues put your home at risk. Speak to our team today to book your free spray foam survey, and get your property back on track.
📞 Call now or visit countrywideinsulation.co.uk to get started.
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