Over the last few years, a growing number of UK homeowners have discovered that spray foam insulation can become a major obstacle when trying to sell, remortgage, or access equity. In many cases, lenders are refusing mortgage applications outright unless spray foam has been fully removed — and certified.
In this article, we explain:
- Which lenders have restrictions in place
- What documentation they require
- How Countrywide Insulation helps homeowners meet those requirements — including free inspections and lender-ready paperwork
The Problem: Lenders Are Treating Spray Foam as High-Risk
Homes with spray foam insulation — especially in lofts or on roof timbers — are often labelled "unmortgageable" by surveyors and lenders. This isn't a theory; it's a trend documented by multiple local councils and national media.
For example:
- Warwickshire County Council has warned that lenders are rejecting properties unless foam is professionally removed and documented.
- The Guardian reports more than 300,000 UK homes could be affected, with removal and repair costs often exceeding £3,000.
- GOV.UK has published technical guidance showing the moisture risk spray foam poses to roof timbers — one of the key reasons lenders now hesitate.
Which Lenders Are Most Affected?
While every application is reviewed individually, several major lenders are now either rejecting homes with spray foam or demanding removal and evidence of timber health before they proceed.
Lenders with known restrictions include:
- HSBC
- Santander
- Nationwide
- NatWest
- Virgin Money
Some equity release providers and retirement mortgage firms
In many cases, surveyors acting for these lenders will down-value the home or mark it as unsuitable unless spray foam has been removed and documented properly.
A few specialist lenders may offer conditional approvals, but this is the exception — not the rule.
What Do Lenders Require?
It's not enough to say the foam has been removed — lenders and surveyors want evidence.
This typically includes:
- A signed spray foam removal certificate
- Moisture level reports on roof timbers
- Photographic documentation showing before and after
- Confirmation the work was carried out by a qualified, insured contractor
How Countrywide Insulation Can Help
At Countrywide Insulation, we specialise in helping homeowners resolve spray foam issues and get mortgage-ready — quickly, safely, and professionally.
Here's what sets us apart:
- Free property inspections with no obligation
- Full moisture testing and photographic documentation
- Signed, lender-ready removal certificates
- A fully insured, compliant team — including roofing-specific insurance, health & safety-trained staff, and registered waste carrier status
Our service is built specifically around the requirements set out by mortgage lenders and surveyors. That means you get the correct paperwork the first time, avoiding delays and unexpected costs during your application or sale.
Learn more about our Spray Foam Removal Services.
Case Study: Homeowner Left in Limbo
In one widely reported case, The Guardian profiled Jim Bunce, a homeowner who installed spray foam insulation in 2022 through a government-backed scheme. By 2024, he was unable to sell or remortgage his property — and had to pay over £3,000 for emergency removal.
Even then, the lack of official certification created delays.
This is where Countrywide Insulation helps homeowners stay one step ahead — by ensuring you get not just removal, but full documentation that passes lender checks.
Avoiding the Pitfalls
Many homeowners are approached by cold callers offering low-cost removal and "guaranteed certificates." But as several councils — including South Gloucestershire and East Riding — have warned, these services are often unqualified and leave homeowners with invalid paperwork and ongoing mortgage issues.
Countrywide Insulation is:
- Fully insured, including for roofing work
- A registered waste carrier
- Health and safety compliant on all jobs
- Backed by real experience with lender inspections
What to Do If You're Applying for a Mortgage
If you've had spray foam removed — or are planning to — take these steps:
- Get a free inspection with a reputable provider like Countrywide Insulation
- Ask for photographic documentation and moisture testing
- Ensure you receive a formal, signed certificate
- Share this with your surveyor or lender at the start of the process
These documents are often the difference between a successful mortgage and a rejected application.
Final Thoughts
Spray foam insulation doesn't have to block your mortgage — but you must be proactive in removing it and documenting the process correctly. Most mortgage lenders now expect professional removal, proof of timber health, and a valid certificate.
Countrywide Insulation provides all of this — and we start with a free inspection, no strings attached.
To speak to our team or book a visit, get in touch today:
https://countrywideinsulation.co.uk/get-a-quote
Or learn more about our full service here:
https://countrywideinsulation.co.uk/spray-foam-removal