The Mortgage Charter

The government recently announced new support measures aimed at assisting borrowers who are struggling with their mortgage repayments, the measures have been detailed in the Mortgage Charter.

We recognise the challenges that some of our members may be facing right now, therefore we are pleased to fully support this Charter.

As a member-focused Society, we have always encouraged our members to speak to us if they are struggling financially. Open communication is now more important than ever, so please do get in touch if you need assistance.

The Charter covers an array of circumstances and measures that may be available, but please talk to one of our customer support team to find out more information, as some of the options may lead to additional interest being charged or a longer term increase in monthly repayments.

Lenders who have signed the Charter have agreed to the following:

• Anyone worried about their mortgage repayments can contact their lender for help and guidance, without any impact on their credit file.
• Support for customers who are up-to-date with payments to switch to a new mortgage deal at the end of their existing fixed rate deal without another affordability check.*
• Lenders will provide well-timed information to help customers plan ahead should their current rate be due to end.
• Lenders will offer tailored support for anyone struggling and deploy highly trained staff to help customers. This could include a range of options, the right option will depend on the customer’s circumstances.
• A borrower will not be forced to leave their home without their consent unless in exceptional circumstances, in less than a year from their first missed payment.
• With effect from 10th July customers approaching the end of a fixed rate deal will have the chance to lock in a deal up to six months ahead, although this will depend on how far in advance a lender releases their new rates. Here at Buckinghamshire Building Society, we have agreed to make products available at least 3 months in advance. Customers will also be able to manage their new deal and request a better like for like deal with their lender right up until their new term starts, if one is available. (Rates must be finalised two weeks before the new term starts)

Finally, a new deal between lenders, the FCA and the government permits customers who are up to date with their payments to:

• Switch to interest-only payments for six months or;
• extend their mortgage term to reduce their monthly payments and give customers the option to revert to their original term within 6 months by contacting their lender

These options can be taken by customers who are up to date with their payments without a new affordability check or affecting their credit score.**

Customers who are currently in arrears should continue to work with their lender for the support that they need.

If you have any questions about the Charter, or would simply like to speak to us about any concerns you may have, please call our customer support team on 01494 879500 or email: info@bucksbs.co.uk

These commitments do not apply to Buy to Let mortgages but we do encourage members with Buy to Let mortgages who are in financial difficulty to speak to us, using the same contact details above, to discuss further options.

 

* Applies where customers are up to date with payments and not seeking to borrow more or change their repayment type or term.

** Monthly payments after the support may be higher than they otherwise would have been and overall costs over the life of the mortgage will be higher. Affordability will need to be checked if borrowers wish to permanently convert to an interest-only mortgage, or where the mortgage term is proposed to be extended beyond the borrower’s expected retirement date.