Why Mortgage Lenders Are Asking for Spray Foam Removal Certificates

If you've had spray foam insulation removed — or you're planning to — understanding the role of a removal certificate is essential. Increasingly, mortgage lenders, equity release providers, and property surveyors are asking for proof that spray foam has not only been removed, but that the job was professionally assessed and documented.

Without that, your mortgage could be delayed or refused. Here's what you need to know, with references from government and council sources.

Why Mortgage Lenders Are Asking for Spray Foam Removal Certificates

Spray foam insulation, particularly when applied to roof timbers, has become a red flag for mortgage lenders across the UK.

Multiple local authorities — including Warwickshire County Council and North East Lincolnshire Council — have issued public warnings that homes with spray foam insulation may be rejected for mortgage lending unless certified proof of safe removal is provided.

This is due to concerns about:

• Hidden timber damage and condensation risk, confirmed in a GOV.UK moisture risk report
• Limited visibility of structural timber during surveys
• Lack of standardisation in older installations

In 2024, The Guardian reported that over 300,000 homes in the UK may be unmortgageable due to insulation-related issues, including cases where removal had occurred but certification was missing (source)

What Is a Spray Foam Removal Certificate?

A spray foam removal certificate is a formal document confirming:

• Full removal of spray foam insulation
• Visual and/or moisture inspections of affected timber
• That the work complies with health and safety expectations

This is the documentation that lenders, surveyors, and solicitors often request before approving loans or progressing with a property sale.

Who Can Issue a Valid Certificate?

Who Can Issue a Valid Certificate?

To satisfy mortgage lenders or equity release providers, a spray foam removal certificate must be issued by someone qualified to inspect the structure and confirm full, safe removal.

At Countrywide Insulation, we issue removal certificates that are recognised by surveyors, solicitors, and mortgage lenders. Our service includes:

• Professional inspection and photographic evidence
• Moisture testing on affected timbers
• A signed removal report, issued by qualified staff with relevant experience and training

Be Aware of Fraudulent or Incomplete Certificates

With the growing urgency around spray foam insulation and mortgage issues, some cold callers and unqualified tradespeople are offering removal services that include unofficial or even worthless paperwork. Councils such as South Gloucestershire and Norfolk have issued formal warnings about insulation-related scams.

Common red flags include:

• Promises of "instant" certificates without any inspection
• Refusal to provide insurance or registration details
• High-pressure tactics that push homeowners to commit on the spot

Unfortunately, accepting work from one of these providers can leave you with a home that still fails a lender's inspection, and out of pocket with no recourse.

At Countrywide Insulation, we are fully insured, qualified, and transparent. We hold:

• Specialist roofing insurance and public liability coverage
• Registered waste carrier status, ensuring all materials are safely and legally disposed of
• A commitment to health and safety compliance on every project
• A clear and documented process that includes inspection, moisture checks, and a formal certificate accepted by lenders and surveyors

We've built our service around what homeowners actually need: long-term peace of mind and paperwork that stands up to scrutiny.

You can also read our detailed blog on how to identify and avoid scams:
Spray Foam Removal Cold Callers: What to Watch Out For

How to Prepare for a Mortgage or Sale After Spray Foam Removal 

If you're planning to sell or refinance your home, it's essential to ensure that spray foam insulation removal has been handled to the standards expected by surveyors, lenders, and solicitors.

At Countrywide Insulation, we make this process straightforward. We don't charge for inspections, and we provide everything you need to satisfy your mortgage lender, including:

• A free property assessment before any work begins
• Photographic evidence of before-and-after conditions
• Moisture testing to assess the condition of underlying timber
• A signed, lender-ready removal certificate issued by our qualified team

We understand exactly what lenders are looking for — and we ensure our process meets those expectations from day one. 

Conclusion

Spray foam removal is only part of the solution. To avoid mortgage refusals or hold-ups during a sale, you need proper documentation that proves the job was done professionally and in line with safety and inspection standards.

Countrywide Insulation handles this from start to finish — and we don't charge for your initial inspection. Our team will guide you through the process, deliver clear certification, and ensure your property is presented in the best light for lenders or buyers.

To find out more about our spray foam removal and certification services, visit:
https://countrywideinsulation.co.uk/spray-foam-removal

Or contact us directly to book your free inspection today.