A bank decline doesn’t mean you can’t get a mortgage. It means the bank’s criteria didn’t fit your situation. Non-bank lenders assess things differently — and we specialise in making them work for you.

Declined by the Bank? It’s Not the End of the Road

Why Banks Decline — And Why It Shouldn’t Stop You

Banks decline mortgages for dozens of reasons that have nothing to do with your ability to actually repay a loan. Common reasons include:

•      A credit blip from years ago — a missed payment, a default, or a past judgement

•      Income that doesn’t fit the bank’s standard model (self-employed, contract, commission)

•      A property type the bank won’t lend against

•      Outstanding IRD debt or tax arrears

•      A recent separation or relationship property settlement

•      Being newly self-employed with less than two years’ trading history

•      Mortgage arrears or a history of late payments

Non-bank lenders look at the full picture, not just the boxes you can’t tick. Many borrowers who are declined by banks are approved by non-bank lenders with structures that work for their actual situation.

Owing money to Inland Revenue is one of the most common reasons banks decline a mortgage application — even when the debt is manageable and you’re making payments. Banks see IRD debt as a red flag regardless of the amount or circumstances.

Non-bank lenders take a different approach. In many cases, the non-bank loan can be structured to consolidate IRD debt into the mortgage, clearing it in one go and simplifying your finances. This can also help you avoid further IRD penalties and interest.

If you have outstanding tax debt and need a home loan, refinance, or equity release, talk to us. We’ll assess whether a non-bank solution can help you resolve the IRD issue and move forward.

IRD Debt and Tax Arrears

What Happens Next

When you get in touch, here’s what to expect:

1.     We review your situation. You tell us what happened with the bank and what you’re trying to achieve. No bank statements needed at this stage.

2.    We assess your options. We look across our panel of 15+ non-bank lenders to find the best fit for your circumstances.

3.    We give you a clear picture. We’ll walk you through the costs, the terms, and the realistic pathway to getting you back to a bank at a lower rate. No surprises, no pressure.

Your Exit Strategy

A non-bank mortgage is often a stepping stone, not a permanent solution. We structure every non-bank loan with a clear exit plan — a pathway to refinance you onto a bank mortgage once your credit, income, or financial position meets bank criteria. Most clients make this transition within 12 to 24 months.