Non-standard construction

Non-standard construction: financing unusual property

Non-standard construction is a well-defined specialist market. Timber-frame, thatched roof, concrete or steel-frame construction, ex-council, high-rise — each has a specific lender panel that actively wants that construction type.

Audience: Buyers of unusual property

Situation: The property is a non-standard construction — timber-frame, thatched, concrete or steel-frame — and mainstream lenders won't touch it.

Primary: Commercial Loans

The situation

The classic experience: mainstream lender agrees in principle, valuer flags non-standard construction, lender withdraws. Frustrating and expensive if it happens after solicitor instruction.

How we approach it

We identify construction type upfront and route to specialist lenders from day one. Rate and LTV are slightly less generous than standard construction, but availability is what matters when the alternative is 'declined'.

What that looks like in practice

Timber-frame, thatched, concrete, steel-frame, ex-council all funded
Typical LTV 70-75% (vs 75-85% standard construction)
Small rate premium over standard construction mortgages
Refurbishment routes where non-standard construction is being remediated
Ex-council flats above 4 storeys handled by specialist lenders

Typical timeline

Week 1
Construction type confirmed, lender shortlist agreed upfront.
Week 2-4
Application, valuation from specialist valuer.
Week 4-8
Offer, completion.

Common questions

Why do standard lenders refuse?

Historic valuation and remediation cost concerns — thatched roof (fire, maintenance), concrete (BISF), timber-frame (some ratings). Specialist lenders assess properly.

How much more does it cost?

Usually 25-75 bps premium over standard construction, small LTV reduction. Not punitive.

Can I refinance later onto mainstream?

Sometimes, if construction type is remediated (e.g. re-thatching cycle documented). Often not — construction is what it is.