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Non-standard construction
Concrete, steel frame, prefab, thatch or listed — we know which lenders will lend, before you spend money on surveys. Send us the property link and we’ll tell you honestly.
We’re all about honesty from the start. Share a link to the property and we’ll tell you if a mortgage is likely.
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Steven talks about a very specialist area of the industry — non-standard construction mortgages.
Non-standard construction
A standard construction is a building made of brick or stone, or perhaps timber-framed. A non-standard construction is anything else — concrete sectional and prefab homes are common examples, as are steel-framed properties and houses with a thatched roof.
A non-standard construction mortgage is a loan designed to let you buy one of these properties.
Many traditional mortgages simply aren’t suitable for this kind of home.
One client came to us after being declined by two banks because the home she wanted was non-standard construction — and she’d already lost money on the lenders’ valuation surveys. We explained the options, found a suitable lender, and she now lives in the property.
Sometimes it’s easy — a concrete sectional home looks very smooth outside, and a thatched roof is obvious.
With others it may not be clear whether a home has a steel or timber frame, so you’ll need the estate agent and vendor to confirm. As a rule, if a house looks different from a standard brick or stone home, ask about its construction.
Do some research before making any commitment. It can be straightforward to get a mortgage on some non-standard homes and harder on others.
A lot depends on when the property was built — recently built steel-frame homes, for example, are easier to mortgage than older ones.
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Our advisers are experienced in a wide range of clients, needs and property types — so you can be confident of quality service and sound advice.
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Why Energise Mortgages?
01
Many are, but not all. A lot depends on the grade. More than 90% of listed homes are Grade II, the least restrictive — yet they can still create mortgage issues. Grade I buildings, such as castles or chapels, are rare.
02
A barn conversion isn’t really non-standard, but some lenders have concerns. These properties are often classed as new builds and are subject to construction guarantees.
A conversion with an architect’s warranty, such as ABC+, will usually be easier to mortgage. Without one, some lenders won’t lend at all.
03
It’s always good to talk to a broker, and especially if anything is unusual about the property. We know which lenders lend on non-standard construction, and that advice could save you from losing money on surveys.
In most cases a non-standard construction mortgage won’t be more expensive — it can even be cheaper. We start with the cheapest lender and check whether they’ll lend on the property.
04
The sooner the better. If you’re about to make an offer, send us the property details — we’ll know what type of property it is and the right questions to ask the agent or vendor.
Many clients talk to us right at the start, so we can work out how much they can borrow and which types of property to consider.
Related guides
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Meet the adviser
There’s more to me than just mortgages. I also have a love for the countryside and a unique venture — my alpaca farm. Nestled in the countryside near York, my alpacas are not just my furry friends, but also a testament to my dedication to diverse interests.
Alpacas, much like mortgages, require careful attention, understanding and a keen eye for detail. Just as I meticulously evaluate mortgage options, I apply the same diligence to caring for my herd — a blend of financial acumen and agricultural expertise that sets me apart.
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Google reviews
“I had a fantastic experience with Steven as my mortgage broker. He was professional, knowledgeable and incredibly helpful throughout the whole process.”
Arnaldo KB
Google review · August 2026
“Steven gets it. He’s been round the block and knows all the things you hire a mortgage adviser for. It’s a no-brainer — save yourself time, money and effort.”
Matt Chappell
Google review · August 2026
“Working with Steven was easily the best decision we made during our home-buying journey. As first-time buyers, he made the process feel simple.”
Kirsty
Google review · August 2026
