• Leaky Pipes and Hidden Costs: What Every Homeowner Should Know

    Leaky Pipes and Hidden Costs: What Every Homeowner Should Know

    This article was published on Mon 1 September 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    As the seasons shift and temperatures fluctuate, your home’s plumbing system can come under pressure. Leaky pipes might seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can quickly spiral into costly repairs and long-term damage.

    At Police Mutual, we’ve pulled together some handy tips so you can stay ahead of these issues, to protect your home and give your peace of mind.

    Why leaky pipes are more than just a drip

    A small leak might not seem urgent, but over time it could lead to:

    • Structural damage to walls, floors, and ceilings
    • Mould and mildew growth, which can affect health
    • Increased water bills from unnoticed leaks
    • Damage to personal belongings and furniture

    What’s more, leaks often go unnoticed until the damage is done, especially in colder months when pipes are more likely to freeze and burst.

    Common signs of a leak

    Spotting a leak early can save you time and money. Keep an eye out for:

    • Damp patches or discolouration on walls or ceilings
    • A musty smell in certain rooms
    • Unexplained increases in your water bill
    • Low water pressure or strange noises in the pipes

    If you notice any of these signs, it’s worth investigating further or calling a professional plumber.

    Seasonal risks to watch out for

    Autumn and winter bring added risks. Cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and crack, especially in unheated areas like lofts or garages. Insulating your pipes and keeping your heating on a low setting, even when you’re away, can help prevent this.

    Protecting your home with insurance

    Even with the best precautions, accidents happen. That’s where Police Mutual Home Insurance comes in. Designed with the needs of the police community in mind, our cover helps protect your home from unexpected damage, including escape of water and burst pipes.

    Don’t let a small leak turn into a big problem.
    Learn more about Police Mutual Home Insurance and see how we can help protect your home today.

    Photo by Andrew Valdivia on Unsplash.

  • Storm-proofing your Home for Summer Weather Surprises

    Storm-proofing your Home for Summer Weather Surprises

    This article was published on 23 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Summer in the UK isn’t all sunshine and barbecues. Unexpected storms, heavy rain, and high winds can strike with little warning.

    Preparing your home for these seasonal surprises could be essential to:

    • protecting your property;
    • reducing damage; and
    • ensuring peace of mind.

    At Police Mutual, we’ve pulled a guide together on how to storm-proof your home this summer, with practical tips and smart upgrades that can make all the difference.

    Inspect and maintain your roof

    Your roof is your first line of defence against the elements. Check for loose or missing tiles, signs of wear, and blocked gutters. Regular maintenance can prevent leaks and water damage during sudden downpours.

    Secure windows and doors

    High winds can turn unsecured windows and doors into weak points. Install storm shutters or use impact-resistant glass where possible. Reinforce door frames and check seals to prevent water ingress.

    Clear gutters and drains

    Blocked gutters and drains can lead to water pooling around your home’s foundation, increasing the risk of flooding. Clean them regularly and consider installing gutter guards to keep debris out.

    Trim trees and secure outdoor items

    Overhanging branches and unsecured garden furniture can become dangerous projectiles in bad weather. Trim trees back from your home and store or anchor outdoor items when bad weather is forecast.

    Install a backup power supply

    Power outages are possible during summer storms. A backup generator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can keep essential appliances running and your home safe.

    Review your home insurance

    Even with the best preparation, storms can cause unexpected damage. That’s why it’s important to have comprehensive home insurance. It’s worth checking your policy to ensure it reflects your current needs and any recent home improvements.

    Reach out to Police Mutual for your Home Insurance needs

    Protecting your home from severe weather doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few proactive steps, you can help protect your property, reduce repair costs, and enjoy a safer, more secure summer, no matter what the weather brings.

    Need extra peace of mind? Make sure your home insurance is up to date and tailored to your lifestyle. A little preparation now can save a lot of stress later.

    If you’re looking to switch Home Insurance providers or needing to take out a policy for the first time, give us a call or apply online to get a quote in minutes.

  • Getting Your Home Summer Ready: A Fresh Start for the Sunny Season

    Getting Your Home Summer Ready: A Fresh Start for the Sunny Season

    This article was published on 16 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    As summer approaches, it’s the perfect time to give your home a seasonal refresh. From brightening up interiors to preparing your garden for long evenings outdoors, a few simple steps can help you make the most of the warmer months. And while you’re sprucing things up, it’s also a smart moment to ensure your home is protected with the right insurance, like Police Mutual Home Insurance, designed with the needs of the police family in mind.

    1. Let the sunshine in

    Swap out heavy curtains for lighter fabrics and give your windows a thorough clean. Natural light not only lifts your mood but also makes your home feel more spacious and welcoming. It’s a small change that can make a big difference.

    2. Declutter and deep clean

    A clutter-free home feels cooler and more relaxing. Take time to store away winter items, donate what you no longer need, and give your home a deep clean. It’s also a good opportunity to check that your valuables are safely stored and properly covered, something Police Mutual Home Insurance can help with, offering protection tailored to your lifestyle.

    3. Refresh with summer colours

    Introduce light, airy tones like soft blues, whites, and pastels into your décor. Swapping out cushions, throws, and rugs can instantly give your home a fresh, summery feel without a full makeover.

    4. Get your garden summer-ready

    Tidy up your outdoor space by mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, and planting colourful flowers. Add some outdoor lighting or a seating area to create a relaxing retreat. If you’ve invested in new garden furniture or equipment, make sure it’s included in your home insurance policy. Police Mutual offers cover that includes outdoor items, giving you peace of mind.

    5. Check cooling systems

    Before the heat hits, test your fans and if you have one, air conditioning units. Clean filters and ensure everything is working efficiently. It’s also a good time to check your smoke alarms and security systems, keeping your home safe and cool all summer long.

    6. Review your home insurance

    Summer often means more activity at home, barbecues, guests, and time spent outdoors. It’s wise to review your home insurance to ensure you’re fully covered. Police Mutual Home Insurance offers comprehensive protection, including accidental damage, helping you enjoy the season without worry.

    7. Create a summer sanctuary

    Designate a space to unwind—whether it’s a shaded garden nook, a sunny reading corner, or a breezy balcony.

    Reach out to Police Mutual for your Home Insurance needs

    Getting your home summer-ready is about more than just aesthetics, it’s about creating a space that feels safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. With a few thoughtful updates and the reassurance of Police Mutual Home Insurance, you can embrace the season with confidence and ease.

    If you’re looking to switch Home Insurance providers or needing to take out a policy for the first time, give us a call or apply online to get a quote in minutes.

  • Going on Holiday? A Homeowner’s Checklist for Peace of Mind

    Going on Holiday? A Homeowner’s Checklist for Peace of Mind

    This article was published on 12 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Brought to you by Police Mutual

    Summer holidays are a time to relax, recharge, and escape the daily grind. Before you jet off, it’s worth taking a few simple steps to ensure your home is safe and secure while you’re away. Whether you’re heading to the coast or flying abroad, this checklist brought to you by Police Mutual Home Insurance will help you enjoy your break with total peace of mind

    Secure All Entry Points

    Before you leave, double-check that all doors and windows are locked, including:

    • Garage doors
    • Loft hatches
    • Side gates and sheds

    Consider installing smart locks or security cameras for added protection. These upgrades not only enhance your home’s security but may also be viewed favourably by your home insurance provider.

    Make It Look Like You’re Home

    An empty house can be a target. Here’s how to keep up appearances:

    • Use timers on lights to mimic your usual routine.
    • Ask a neighbour to collect post or use Royal Mail’s Keepsafe service.
    • Leave a car in the driveway if possible.

    Some policies, including Police Mutual Home Insurance, may have conditions around unoccupied homes so it’s worth checking your documents before you go. You can always give us a call to check anything over if you have any concerns.

    Minimise Fire and Water Risks

    Before you head off:

    • Unplug non-essential appliances.
    • Turn off water at the mains (especially if you’re away for more than a week).
    • Test your smoke alarms.

    Water damage is one of the most common Home Insurance claims*. Taking these steps can help prevent costly incidents and unnecessary stress.

    Review Your Home Insurance Policy

    Make sure your policy:

    • Covers unoccupied periods (some limit this to 30 days).
    • Includes accidental damage and theft.
    • Reflects any recent home improvements or high-value purchases.

    If you’re unsure, contact Police Mutual to review your cover. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

    Let Someone You Trust Know

    Leave a spare key with a trusted friend or neighbour and give them:

    • Your contact details
    • Alarm codes (if needed)
    • Instructions in case of emergency

    They can act quickly if something goes wrong, potentially saving you from a costly claim.

     Reach out to Police Mutual for your Home Insurance needs

    At Police Mutual, we understand the importance of protecting what matters most. By following this checklist, you can enjoy your holiday knowing your home is secure and your insurance is ready to support you if needed.

    If you’re looking to switch Home Insurance providers or needing to take out a policy for the first time, give us a call or apply online to get a quote in minutes.

    *Source: What are the most common home insurance claims in the UK? – Which?

  • Car & Home Insurance – How do you Make Sure you get the Best Value for your Needs Compared to the Cost?

    Car & Home Insurance – How do you Make Sure you get the Best Value for your Needs Compared to the Cost?

    This article was published on 29 May 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Price increases and rising inflation are putting a lot of pressure on household finances. Many people are actively reviewing their finances and cutting back or eradicating expenditure where possible to make savings.

    Payments and prices will come under the spotlight. But it’s not always a case of searching out the lowest cost, you need to consider your personal needs and the value you want your policy to provide.

    Take insurance premiums for example. Car insurance is a legal requirement in the UK, but home insurance isn’t. So, at the extreme, someone could risk not insuring their home to save outgoings. But what a risk! Damage to the house structure or loss of home contents could be incredibly expensive to redress.

    So, how could you manage the amount you pay for your insurance whilst making sure it is still adequate for your needs? Options to look at could include opting to pay a higher excess in the event of a claim, or not covering your home contents for accidental damage. When considering options like this you would need to consider how you would cover any additional costs that might arise in the event of a claim. For example, consider if you could afford to pay the higher excess in the event of a claim, or how you would replace items subject to accidental damage if you decided not to take that level of cover out with your policy. 

    Some insurance policies may promote a lower headline cost, but either not include certain elements that you personally would find useful or need, or make you pay extra for elements that you want to make use of.

    Examples include:

    • You might want to consider a car insurance policy that provides a courtesy car. If as a result of a claim your car needs to go in for repairs you would need to make arrangements to remain mobile for the period that your car is being repaired.
    • You might want to consider a home or car insurance policy that doesn’t charge to make changes during the time you hold the policy with the insurer. Changes you may need to make during the year could include mileage changes, address changes, insured driver changes and provision of duplicate documents. If your job or occupation changes, you might need to change your home or car insurance cover, for instance, if you become self-employed and work from home. If your policy charges for amendments these can add costs to your original premium paid.
    • You may want to review what policy extras you actually need, being mindful that you would need to consider how you would cover any additional costs arising if you decided to exclude policy add-ons.
    • Specialist Police car insurance policies may or may not include protection for officers travelling to or from work in their car whilst carrying official kit such as their Police Uniform. If you are a serving officer, you may want to make sure your policy covers you for this.

    So, it pays to look beyond the headline cost and get a policy that works for you and your specific needs.

    Reviewing your policy could make sure you have a policy that meets your individual needs and help reduce the chances of you being hit with any unexpected costs.

    If you are reviewing your insurance premium costs as part of your household finances review, you may be interested to know that you don’t need to wait until your renewal date to review and switch your insurance policy.

    Even if you took out an annual policy paid upfront as a lump sum, you may be able get a refund on some of your premiums and switch to a new insurer of your choice. However, some insurance companies may apply a cancellation charge for moving away from them during the term of the policy. You can help protect yourself from these charges by moving to an insurer that will pay some or all of the cancellation fees charged by your old insurer.

    If you move your car or home insurance to Police Mutual, any cancellation fees charged by your old insurer up to a maximum of £125 will be paid. So you can move straight away without waiting till renewal time. To give you an idea of cancellation charges, the average cancellation charge levied in 2024 (after the 14-day cooling off period) for car insurance was £55,[1] and while there are no official figures for home insurance in 2024, it’s usually between £25 and £50, according to NimbleFins.[2] Your existing policy documents should tell you what your exact cancellation charge would be.

    You can check out Police Mutual Car & Home Insurance here.

    Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS and Police Mutual Home Insurance is provided by Bspoke Underwriting Ltd.

    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No.1073408. Registered office: Brookfield Court, Selby Road, Leeds, LS25 1NB. For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    [1] Average Cost to Cancel UK Car Insurance (2024) | NimbleFins

    [2] Home Cancellation Fees| NimbleFins

  • Spring has Sprung

    Spring has Sprung

    This article was published on 29 April 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Spring is the time of year that we dust off the winter blues, enjoy longer days and look forward to the return of sunshine. Traditionally spring also sees a boost to the mortgage market with potential buyers starting house hunts in earnest, or people looking to re-mortgage for home improvements. If you’re considering a house purchase this spring, here are some hints and tips to help you through the process.

    Consider your budget:

    Buying a home is an expensive business. It’s not just about getting a mortgage, you also need to consider the other costs associated with your move. Legal fees, surveys, stamp duty and removal costs are just a few so make sure you include these in your upfront budgeting. It’s also worth remembering the potential for rates to rise.

    Get a mortgage agreement in principle:

    Most lenders will offer a ‘mortgage agreement in principle’ – this confirms the amount you’ve specified to the lender which you believe you’ll need to borrow. This isn’t a guarantee to lending, as it’s subject to acceptance and completion of various checks and surveys. However, having an agreement in principle could give you an advantage when you’re putting in an offer on a property. You can research the mortgage market yourself but this can be very complex. Consider contacting a mortgage advisor who can help you find the deals you qualify for and guide you through the process.

    And don’t forget… If you choose to take out a mortgage with a fixed rate, that deal will come to an end after the period specified by the mortgage provider.

    Consider resale potential:

    If the property you’re buying is not going to be your forever home you need to consider how easy it will be to re-sell when you’re ready to move on. If a property has been on the market for a while think about why it hasn’t sold, is it the surrounding area or the layout of the property?

    Get the correct survey:

    The mortgage company will request a survey of the property but this is only for lending purposes and will not give you a full view of the condition of the property. To protect yourself, you should consider obtaining either a more detailed homebuyer’s report or a full structural survey, which is the most comprehensive of the three. These reports are more expensive but they’re very detailed and any problems they identify may help you negotiate the purchase price of the property.

    Arrange your home insurance:

    Before you exchange contracts you need to ensure that you have suitable home insurance in place – buildings insurance is mandatory for exchange. Shop around and get as many quotes as possible but remember to balance the cost of the policy against the benefits. Some of the cheapest policies may not offer the cover you need or have high excesses in the event of a claim.

    Police Mutual offer insurance to help you protect your home and belongings – to find out more and to get a quote click here.

    Should you move or improve?:

    If there is room for improvement, you might want to think about making changes to your current home rather than moving. Adding space can generally add value to your home. Do your research on what you might be able to add by speaking to local estate agents or looking at similar homes in the area. You may be able to fund smaller home improvements with savings but for larger projects you could consider talking to your existing mortgage provider about extending the loan or speaking to an independent mortgage adviser about a remortgage.

    You can find more information on the Police Mutual Fee-Free Mortgage Advice Service here.

  • Mortgage Broker or Direct Deal?

    Mortgage Broker or Direct Deal?

    This article was published on 28 April 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    With so many mortgage deals available, how can you ensure you find the right one for you?

    You could decide to go direct, searching the market yourself and approaching a lender directly for a specific mortgage deal. Lenders may provide advice, but only on the products they offer. Going direct could save you money as you’re not charged fees that some brokers charge for mortgage advice, but only if you know what mortgage is best for you.  You could arrange a new mortgage with your existing bank or building society, but you could be limited solely to their own mortgage products, significantly restricting the deals available to you.

    What is a mortgage broker?

    A mortgage broker is a person or company that arranges a mortgage between you (the borrower) and a mortgage lender.

    They will:

    • Help you assess your financial situation
    • Search the market to find deals that match your criteria
    • Recommend the most suitable mortgage for your needs

    What are the benefits of using a broker?

    • Convenience – if you’re not sure what you’re looking for and aren’t clear on the mortgage markets, or just don’t have the time to search for deals and speak to lenders, then a broker can be very useful. They could save you a considerable amount of time.
    • Access – mortgage brokers will usually have access to a wide range of lenders, with deals that aren’t always available if you go direct. This means they have a wider choice of options to recommend from.
    • Expertise – if you’re not familiar with the different types of mortgages available, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. For such an important financial decision, having an expert who can provide impartial advice and explain things, will make the whole process clearer.

    What are the disadvantages?

    • Cost – mortgage brokers receive commission from the lender, some charge a fee for their services. This can be charged an hourly or ‘flat fee’ basis and can either be charged up front or on completion of your mortgage.
    • Limitations – not all brokers have independent access to the mortgage market, some only use certain lenders. Not all mortgage deals offered by banks and building societies are available through brokers.
    • Quality – getting a mortgage is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, so it’s important to make sure you choose a broker carefully and get recommendations where possible.

    What types of mortgage brokers are there?

    • Brokers who only offer mortgage from a single lender
    • Brokers who offer mortgages from a limited number of lenders
    • Brokers who offer a comprehensive range of mortgages from across the market.

    You can find more information on the Police Mutual Fee-Free Mortgage Advice Service here.

  • Understanding Mortgage Rates: How They Work and Future Trends

    Understanding Mortgage Rates: How They Work and Future Trends

    This article was published on 28 April 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Mortgage rates play a crucial role in the property market, influencing homebuying decisions and the overall economic landscape. In this article, we will explore the mechanics behind mortgage rates and the factors influencing them.

    Mortgage rates represent the interest that lenders charge borrowers for home loans. These rates fluctuate based on several factors, including:

    1. Economic Indicators:

    Key economic indicators such as the Bank of England Base Rate, inflation, employment rates, bonds yields and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, impact mortgage rates. Lenders assess these indicators to determine the level of risk associated with lending money.

    What is inflation?

    You may have heard this mentioned in the news. Inflation is the rate of change in the consumer price of goods and services. It’s most commonly measured using the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) and the Retail Prices Index (RPI). It compares the price of consumer goods in the current year with the previous year.

    So how does inflation impact mortgage rates? The Bank of England takes into consideration inflation when deciding interest rates. Previously when inflation has gone up then interest rates have also tended to increase.

    2. Credit Scores:

    Borrowers’ credit scores play a significant role. Individuals with higher credit scores often qualify for lower mortgage interest rates as they are considered less risky to lenders.

    In addition to your credit score personal factors such as your deposit, income and assets can also affect what mortgage rates are available to you.

    3. Loan Terms:

    The length of the loan term also affects mortgage rates. Generally, shorter-term loans have lower interest rates compared to longer-term ones.


    Predicting future mortgage rates is challenging due to the multitude of economic factors and market conditions. Although some mortgage lenders have started cutting mortgage rates, predicting future rates remains uncertain. Staying informed about economic trends and regularly monitoring market conditions can help individuals make informed decisions about their home financing options.

    You can find more information on the Police Mutual Fee-Free Mortgage Advice Service here.

  • Improve Your Odds of Getting Your Mortgage Loan Approved

    Improve Your Odds of Getting Your Mortgage Loan Approved

    This article was published on Fri 09 Feb 2024. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    Are you thinking of applying for a mortgage soon? Navigating the mortgage application process can be difficult, with lenders having different criteria for assessing mortgage applications. Getting your mortgage loan approved depends on a range of factors including:

    • The size of loan you want to take out
    • How much you’ve saved as a deposit
    • Your employment status and income
    • Your credit rating
    • Your outgoings
    • Your existing debt

    We take a look at what steps you can take to boost your chances of getting your mortgage application approved.

    New house purchase – If you’re looking to buy a house then the earlier the better! Start the process and speak to an advisor before viewing properties. That way you’ll not only know how much you can afford to borrow, but it could identify any hiccups early on to prevent any delays in getting a mortgage. You could also be at an advantage compared to other buyers if you have a mortgage already agreed in principle.

    Remortgaging – You should generally start looking for a remortgage deal no later than three months before your current deal ends. Moving to a new lender could take up to two months so you need to give yourself time to consider your options.

    • Poor credit history
    • Too many credit applications
    • Not on the electoral role
    • Too much debt
    • Insufficient income

    It’s not easy securing a home loan as lenders apply affordability rules to ensure they offer mortgages that people can afford. The following tips could help you boost your mortgage chances.

    Get your finances in order– you need to be as financially attractive to lenders as possible. So getting your finances in order and reviewing your spending habits up to 12 months before you apply for a mortgage will help.

    Cut back on your spending as Lenders will ask for detail about your outgoings and are likely to ask to see your bank statements to verify what you’ve told them. This is to make sure you’d still be able to afford your mortgage if your circumstances changed. Your application could be rejected if you fail to show you’re managing your money responsibly.

    Manage your credit and pay bills off on time – Pay your credit cards and bills on time. Any missed payments can remain on your credit file for six years, so keeping up payments is a must. Setting up direct debit payments for credit cards can avoid the risk of you missing a payment.

    Check your credit report – Lenders will check your credit report(s) to see if you’ve got a good repayment history. Your report lists your credit cards, overdrafts, loans, mortgages, mobile phones and some utility payments for all accounts opened within the last 6 years. You can check your credit file at all of the three main credit agencies – EquifaxTrans Union & Experian.

    If you’ve applied for joint credit, such as a mortgage or bank account, then you will be financially linked to someone else. If you’ve since separated or have nothing to do with them then they could be affecting your credit score, so you’ll need to update your file. If you spot anything wrong with your credit file then you need to request an amendment.

    Are you registered to vote? – If you’re not on the electoral register then your chances of getting a mortgage could be reduced. Lenders will often use the register to confirm your current residency. Your credit report will tell you if you’re on the electoral role. If you’re not you can register here.

    Don’t apply for credit 6 months before applying for a mortgage – If you apply for a loan, credit card, utility contract or even a mobile phone then a search may be registered on your credit report, even if you don’t take out the contract. If your credit file shows multiple searches then this can reduce your ability to obtain credit. If you’ve had a payday loan in the last 12 months then you could be declined for a mortgage.

    Put down extra on top of your deposit – All mortgages have a maximum loan-to-value (the amount you borrow compared to what the property’s worth). Keeping the loan-to-value as low as possible – for example putting down a little bit more than the minimum deposit required – can make you more attractive to the lender.

    Get your paperwork organised – Lenders will need to see proof of your income before they can offer a mortgage so getting it ready in advance could speed the process up. Your lender may want to see any or all of:

    • Your last three months’ payslips
    • Your last three months’ bank statements
    • Proof of bonuses/commission
    • Your latest P60 tax form (showing income and tax paid from each tax year)
    • Proof of deposits (eg, savings account statements)
    • ID documents (usually a passport)
    • Proof of address (eg, utility bills or credit card bills)
    • A gift letter, this is where you receive part of your mortgage deposit as a gift. If you’re getting deposit help, the lender needs to know it is a gift (not a loan), and that the giver won’t part own the home.
  • Mortgages for the Police family – Frequently Asked Questions

    Mortgages for the Police family – Frequently Asked Questions

    This article was published on Thu 26 Oct 2023. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    With so many mortgages on the market, you may have a lot of questions when you first start doing your research. It’s hard enough to find the time when you’re working 9 to 5 and it can be even tougher if you’re working all hours in your role with the Police.

    Can I get a ‘guarantor mortgage’?

    There’s actually no such thing as a ‘guarantor mortgage’ as such. However, it’s not uncommon for people, especially first-time buyers to turn to their parents for financial support. Sometimes this could mean your parents contributing towards the deposit you need to put down. But it could also involve them acting as ‘guarantor’ on any mortgage you take out. This means that they would be responsible for making payments on your mortgage, if you were unable to. If you think you’ll need financial help from your parents when taking out your mortgage, it’s worth having a chat with a mortgage advisor.

    What size of mortgage can I get?

    The amount of money you can borrow depends on a number of factors, including your income, credit rating, how much of a deposit you can put down and the value of the property you wish to buy. Traditionally lenders would lend no more than four times your salary, however many have individual affordability calculators which will help you establish roughly how much you could borrow.  

    Do I have to have worked in the Police for a certain length of time before applying for a mortgage?

    Broadly speaking, the longer you’ve been in your job the better, as far as mortgage lenders are concerned. Lenders require proof of your income before approving a mortgage application. They may ask to see up to 3 months worth of payslips. If you have been in your role for less time than that, you might need to provide other evidence to support your application. That said, there are some lenders who will consider mortgage applications from people who have only just started their career in the Police.

    Can I get a joint mortgage?

    If you and your partner are looking to buy a home together, it makes sense to get a joint mortgage. The biggest advantage in doing so is that it could increase your buying power. This is because the amount of money you can borrow is based on your income (amongst other things). So, when considering your application, your mortgage provider will look at you and your partner’s combined salary.

    How much of a deposit do I need?

    The amount of deposit you will need to buy a home depends firstly on how much the property you wish to purchase is valued at. This can be around 15% of the property value.