Working under the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) can sometimes make obtaining a mortgage more complicated than it needs to be. While many CIS workers earn a strong and consistent income, traditional mortgage assessments do not always reflect how contractors and subcontractors are paid.
A CIS mortgage is designed for individuals who work within the construction industry and are paid through the Construction Industry Scheme. Rather than relying solely on traditional employment methods, some specialist lenders may assess affordability using CIS payslips and gross contract income.
Through SynergiseUK, you can be introduced to independent mortgage specialists experienced in helping CIS contractors explore suitable mortgage options from across the market.
If you are considering a mortgage, you can begin your enquiry today and take the first step towards speaking with a specialist.
What Is a CIS Mortgage?
A CIS mortgage is a mortgage that may be available to contractors and subcontractors registered under the Construction Industry Scheme.
Many CIS workers are technically self-employed for tax purposes, yet their income can often be evidenced through regular CIS statements and payslips. Some specialist lenders recognise this and may use gross income calculations rather than relying on traditional self-employed accounts.
This can be particularly helpful for contractors who:
- Have limited trading history
- Have only recently become self-employed
- Do not have several years of accounts available
- Want their full income considered during affordability assessments
- Have fluctuating earnings throughout the year
Lending criteria vary between providers and all applications are subject to status and affordability assessments.
Who May Be Eligible for a CIS Mortgage?
CIS mortgages may be suitable for:
- Construction contractors
- Self-employed builders
- Bricklayers
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Carpenters
- Groundworkers
- Scaffolders
- Roofers
- Site managers
- Labourers working under CIS arrangements
Specialist mortgage advisers can assess individual circumstances and identify lenders that regularly work with CIS applicants.
Benefits of CIS Mortgages
Depending on your circumstances, a CIS mortgage could offer several advantages.
Use of CIS Income
Some lenders may assess affordability using your CIS payslips and contract income rather than requiring traditional self-employed accounts.
Potentially Higher Borrowing Capacity
Where gross contract income is considered, borrowing potential may be higher than under standard self-employed assessments.
Fewer Years of Accounts Required
Certain lenders may accept applicants with less than two years of trading history, subject to criteria.
Suitable for Contractors
Many CIS mortgage providers understand the nature of contract-based construction work and can assess applications accordingly.
How CIS Mortgage Assessments Work
Each lender has its own underwriting requirements, but specialists may consider factors such as:
- CIS payment statements
- Recent payslips
- Bank statements
- Contract history
- Time working within the construction industry
- Credit history
- Deposit available
- Existing financial commitments
The exact documentation required will vary between lenders.
Common CIS Mortgage Scenarios
First Time Buyers
Many construction workers are purchasing their first property and may find specialist CIS mortgage lenders more suitable than standard high street options.
Home Movers
If you are moving home and your income is paid through CIS, a specialist adviser may be able to identify lenders that understand your employment structure.
Remortgaging
CIS workers often remortgage to secure a new deal, release equity or consolidate existing borrowing where appropriate.
Recently Self-Employed
Individuals who have moved from PAYE employment into CIS contracting may still find mortgage options available, subject to lender criteria.
Documents Often Required
While requirements vary, lenders commonly request:
- CIS payslips or statements
- Proof of identity
- Proof of address
- Recent bank statements
- Details of current contracts
- Evidence of deposit funds
Additional documentation may be required depending on individual circumstances.
Why Choose SynergiseUK?
SynergiseUK is a professional referral network that introduces individuals to carefully selected independent mortgage specialists throughout the UK.
When you enquire through us:
- Access introductions to experienced mortgage specialists
- Assistance with identifying lenders familiar with CIS income
- Support throughout the introduction process
- Access to specialists covering a wide range of mortgage scenarios
- No obligation to proceed
Our role is to connect you with a suitable specialist who can discuss your circumstances in more detail.
To begin the process, simply use the Start Your Enquiry option and a member of the team will be in touch.
Who CIS Mortgages May Suit
A CIS mortgage may be worth exploring if you:
- Work within the UK construction industry
- Are paid under the Construction Industry Scheme
- Have limited self-employed accounts available
- Need a first-time buyer mortgage
- Are looking to move home
- Wish to remortgage
- Want a lender that understands contractor income
Every application is assessed individually and acceptance is never guaranteed.
Start Your Enquiry
If you work under the Construction Industry Scheme and would like to explore your mortgage options, SynergiseUK can introduce you to a specialist experienced in CIS mortgage applications.
Use the Start Your Enquiry option or the enquiry form below to begin the process. A specialist can review your circumstances and explain the options that may be available to you.
Enquire today with no obligation.
Frequently asked Q&A's
A CIS mortgage is a mortgage product for contractors registered under the Construction Industry Scheme.
Using CIS returns, accounts, and tax calculations over 2–3 years, sometimes averaging monthly payments.
Yes, some lenders accept contractors with as little as 12 months of CIS income
Rates are usually competitive if income documentation is satisfactory, though some lenders may price slightly higher.
Yes, both self-employed and limited company contractors can apply.
CIS statements, SA302s, company accounts (if applicable), bank statements, and ID verification.
Yes, provided affordability and income criteria are met.
Typically, 4–8 weeks, depending on lender and document complexity.
Yes, some lenders offer Buy-to-Let options for CIS contractors.
SynergiseUK introduces you to specialist mortgage brokers who provide advice, compare lenders, and manage your CIS mortgage application.
A mortgage is a long-term financial commitment and is not suitable for everyone.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other debt secured on it.
Interest rates may be fixed or variable. If you take a variable or tracker mortgage, your repayments could increase if interest rates rise. Changes to your personal circumstances — such as loss of income, illness, or increased living costs — could also affect your ability to meet repayments.
Mortgages often involve additional costs, including arrangement fees, legal fees, valuation fees, early repayment charges, and other lender or adviser fees. Extending the mortgage term may reduce monthly payments but can result in paying more interest overall and remaining in debt for longer.
You should carefully consider affordability now and in the future and seek professional advice before proceeding.
Important: Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other debt secured on it.
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