Question – I am intending to let my property which has a residential mortgage on it, what should I do and is this ok?
Firstly it is a typical condition of almost all residential mortgage contracts that the property should not be let without the consent of the lender. So you should always speak to your lender first and see what they say.
Most lenders will be relatively helpful with this as there are numerous reasons people choose to let what was once their home and it’s a very common occurrence. They may want to change the mortgage contract to a buy to let type or in some circumstances change nothing until the current mortgage is out of its initial term.
A lender is unlikely to give you a positive response though if you only entered into your mortgage contract very recently. If they did then very few people would bother paying the higher interest on a buy to let mortgage and would simply take a residential mortgage and switch it a week later.
You will also need to look at your buildings and contents insurance as it will very likely invalidate this policy if you are not the main occupant. Tenants are more likely to ruin a property than the owner so your home insurance may be a little more expensive, and last but not least you need to make sure you comply with all the regulations around being a landlord as regards gas inspections and using a secure tenant’s deposit scheme to avoid any litigation in the future.
As usual if your need further information about this call 0845 4594490 to a speak to a mortgage advisor about your own circumstances.
