Can You Get a Mortgage on a Property With a Flat Roof in 2025?
Flat Roofs Don’t Automatically Mean a Mortgage Refusal, But You’ll Need the Right Survey, Roofing Spec, and Lender Strategy in 2025
Why Flat Roofs Raise Concerns for Lenders
Flat roofs are more common than many buyers realise—especially on mid-century homes, garage extensions, and some modernist or modular designs. But despite being architecturally normal, many lenders still see them as higher risk than traditional pitched roofs.
The issue isn’t aesthetic. It’s practical.
Flat roofs are more prone to:
- Water pooling and leakage
- Faster weather-related wear
- Poor installation or maintenance
- Higher ongoing repair costs
If the roof hasn’t been recently replaced or inspected, it can trigger a down-valuation, a request for a specialist report, or even a mortgage refusal.
Are Mortgages Still Possible in 2025?
Yes—most mainstream lenders will still lend on properties with flat roofs, if certain conditions are met.
What lenders want to know is:
- What percentage of the total roof area is flat
- What materials were used (felt, GRP/fibreglass, EPDM, asphalt, etc.)
- How recently it was replaced or inspected
- Whether the valuer flags it as a concern in the mortgage valuation report
Flat Roof Red Flags That Can Impact a Mortgage
Certain situations can cause lenders to hesitate or require further evidence:
- The flat roof is more than 20–30% of the property’s total roof area
- It’s made of older felt or bitumen with signs of wear
- The age is unknown, and no recent inspection has taken place
- There is evidence of water ingress or damp inside the property
- No warranty or guarantee is available for the roof structure
In these cases, the lender may:
- Reduce the loan-to-value
- Request a specialist roofing report
- Make the offer conditional on repairs or replacement
- Refuse the loan entirely if the risk is deemed too high
What Surveyors Look For
The mortgage valuation is critical. If the surveyor sees signs of:
- Pooling water
- Sagging or uneven surface
- Patchwork repairs
- Damp staining on ceilings
…it may trigger a recommendation for a specialist roof survey or a retention of funds until works are completed.
Even if the rest of the property is sound, the roof can drag the valuation down—especially in properties where flat roofs cover main living areas rather than garages or extensions.
What Materials Are Most Mortgage-Friendly?
In 2025, lenders favour newer roofing systems with warranties. These include:
- GRP (fibreglass) – Durable, seamless, and long-lasting
- EPDM rubber – Low maintenance and modern
- Torch-on felt – Acceptable if recently installed with a guarantee
- Asphalt – Still acceptable if maintained well
Older felt or DIY repairs can cause issues, particularly if the roof is already showing signs of water damage or degradation.
How Willow Private Finance Can Help
We’ve placed mortgages on a wide range of flat-roofed properties—from urban extensions to entire mid-century homes with 100% flat roofing.
Lenders vary in their approach. Some have strict limits on the flat roof percentage. Others are more flexible—if the case is packaged properly with evidence of:
- A recent inspection or report
- Roofing warranties or guarantees
- Clear explanations from the valuer
We know which lenders to approach, how to present the case to avoid unnecessary delays, and when to commission supporting surveys in advance. If a flat roof is slowing down your mortgage progress—or has been declined—we can help you salvage and structure the deal.
Practical Tips for Buyers
- Ask for the age of the roof and any warranties upfront
- Commission a roofing inspection before submitting your mortgage application
- Use a broker who knows which lenders are comfortable with flat roof properties
- Be prepared to fund repairs or upgrades as a condition of mortgage release
Related Blogs You May Find Helpful
- What To Know About Financing Unusual Properties in 2025
- How To Finance Property With Non-Standard Construction in 2025
- Can You Get a Mortgage With Complex Income in 2025?
📞 Want Help Navigating Today’s Market?
Book a free strategy call with one of our mortgage specialists.
We’ll help you find the smartest way forward—even if your roof raises questions.
Important Information: Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other loan secured on it.
The information contained in this article is for general guidance only and does not constitute advice. You should seek professional advice tailored to your personal circumstances before making any financial decisions.
Willow Private Finance Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA number: 588422.
