Spray foam insulation was once considered a modern energy-saving upgrade, but it has now become a major reason mortgage lenders refuse applications across the UK. If you’re trying to sell your home, remortgage, or release equity, spray foam may be at the centre of the problem.
In this guide, we explain why spray foam causes mortgage issues, how it affects your roof, and how professional spray foam removal restores your home’s value and mortgageability.
Can You Get a Mortgage with Spray Foam? Why Lenders Say No
Mortgage lenders increasingly categorise spray foam insulation as high-risk, particularly in older roofs. Here’s why.
1. Spray Foam Prevents Proper Roof Inspections
Surveyors must inspect the roof timbers, felt and structure to confirm the property is safe and mortgageable. Spray foam bonds tightly to the roof, making this impossible without removal.
This hides issues such as:
- Rotting or damp rafters
- Failing felt or sarking
- Water ingress
- Timber movement
Because surveyors cannot see the roof condition, lenders cannot sign off the mortgage — resulting in valuation downgrades or outright refusals.
2. Spray Foam Can Trap Moisture and Cause Timber Decay
Closed-cell spray foam is especially problematic because it forms an airtight barrier. If moisture becomes trapped behind it, it can lead to:
- Condensation
- Timber rot
- Long-term structural damage
This makes lenders view spray foam as a potential future liability.
3. Non-Standard Material = Higher Lending Risk
Spray foam is classed as a non-standard construction material. Many installations were completed without appropriate ventilation, making the risks inconsistent and unpredictable across homes.
Because of this inconsistency, lenders often:
- Decline mortgages
- Lower valuations
- Demand full removal
This is why homes with spray foam insulation struggle to sell.
4. Spray Foam Can Reduce Property Value
Estate agents report that spray foam insulation can cause:
- Offers being withdrawn
- Chains collapsing
- Buyers walking away
- Surveyors “red-flagging” the property
Some sellers have lost 10–25% off their valuation until the foam is removed.
Common Signs Spray Foam Is Causing Mortgage Issues
Many homeowners discover the problem only when:
- A surveyor notes “roof not inspectable due to foam”
- A lender refuses a mortgage or remortgage
- A buyer’s bank requests full spray foam removal
- A valuer applies a significant discount
If this has happened to you, removal is the only accepted solution by lenders.
How Professional Spray Foam Removal Fixes Mortgage Problems
Professional removal is essential — DIY removal often causes roof damage or leaves remnants that still prevent lending.
Here’s how proper removal resolves the issue.
1. Removal Restores Roof Visibility
Specialists safely remove spray foam from:
- Rafters
- Felt
- Joists
- Underside of tiles
Once exposed, surveyors can conduct a full, lender-approved inspection. This is the main step needed to reinstate your mortgage application.
2. Structural Issues Can Be Identified and Repaired
After removal, roofing experts can assess:
- Timber condition
- Ventilation needs
- Breathability of the loft space
Any required repairs can be completed before re-insulating.
3. Re-Insulation with Lender-Approved Materials
After removal, homeowners usually upgrade insulation using:
- Loft roll insulation
- Actis Hybris
- Breathable insulation systems
- Improved ventilation solutions
These materials comply with both building regulations and mortgage lending requirements.
4. Documentation Provided for Lender Confidence
A reputable spray foam removal company (like GLSR Solutions) provides:
- Before & after photos
- Waste transfer notes
- Professional reports
- Re-insulation specifications
This documentation reassures surveyors and lenders that the issue is fully resolved.
Does Removing Spray Foam Help You Sell Your Home? Yes — Absolutely.
Once the foam is professionally removed:
- Lenders treat the roof as standard construction
- Mortgage applications proceed normally
- Buyers stop withdrawing offers
- Valuations return to expected levels
For many homeowners, spray foam removal immediately unlocks sales and remortgage approvals that were previously blocked.
If spray foam insulation is blocking your mortgage, we can help. GLSR Solutions specialises in safe, professional spray foam removal, full roof assessments, and compliant re-insulation that meets lender requirements.
Our team handles everything from survey to completion — giving you the documentation lenders need to approve your application.
👉 Contact GLSR Solutions today for a free survey and quotation.
