Spray foam insulation and selling or remortgaging

What the concern is

Spray foam on the underside of the roof covers the rafters, battens and back of the tiles or slates. A surveyor can’t see the condition of those timbers, and some types of foam can trap moisture against them, which can lead to decay that goes unnoticed. As a result, some mortgage lenders have been cautious about lending on homes with spray foam, and surveyors have been given guidance on how to deal with it. RICS, the surveyors’ professional body, has published guidance on spray foam for its members.

Not every case is the same

There are different types of foam (open-cell and closed-cell), applied in different ways, in roofs of different designs. Some lenders accept certain installations with the right paperwork, such as an inspection report from a qualified person. Lenders’ policies vary and change, so ask your mortgage lender or broker what they need.

Your options

• Get an inspection. A report on the foam and the condition of the roof can be the first step, and some lenders ask for one.
• Remove it. Taking the foam off the rafters and tiles, then insulating the loft properly in the conventional way. See spray foam removal.
• Check the paperwork. Any guarantee or certificate from the original installation may help, so find it.

We can’t give mortgage or financial advice. Speak to your lender or broker about what they will accept.