What Documents Do You Need To Get A Mortgage | Mortgage Advisor

Let’s Talk Money and Mortgages

Introduction

Gemma: Hello and welcome back to our channel and podcast! My name is Gemma, and here at WIS, we talk about money, mortgages, and positive money mindset.

If that interests you, be sure to subscribe and hit the thumbs up so you won’t miss any of our videos.

Today, we’ll be discussing all the documents you need for your mortgage application.

We are joined by Ifthi, a trained accountant and mortgage advisor with over 11 years of experience, and one of the founding directors at WIS.

Welcome back, Ifthi! How are you today?

Ifthi: Hi, I’m very well, thank you.

Gemma: I’m very well too!

Q1: What documents do I need for a standard mortgage application?

Ifthi: It depends on the lender and your employment type—so documents can vary. Today we’ll go through the main ones, and also cover contractors and self-employed applicants.

1. Proof of ID

Gemma: What ID is required?

Ifthi:

Two forms of ID are usually required now (passport and driving license).

This helps lenders run background checks.

If you’re on a visa or ILR, a copy of your visa stamp or visa card will also be needed.

2. Proof of Address

Gemma: Why is this important?

Ifthi:

Lenders want to see stability in your living situation.

Usually, utility bills (gas, electricity, water) or council tax bills are accepted.

Bank statements may be accepted by some lenders, but mobile phone bills are not.

If living with parents, make sure your name is on the bill.

3. Three Months’ Bank Statements

Ifthi:

Lenders review your expenditure patterns and verify salary payments.

Statements must show your address, sort code, and account number.

Overseas banks may require certified statements from the branch.

4. Credit Report

Ifthi:

A credit report ensures the details in your application match official records.

Even small loans (like store financing) must be disclosed to avoid being flagged as undisclosed credit, which can harm your application.

5. Direct Debit Details

Ifthi:

Mortgages are paid by direct debit.

You cannot set up a personal standing order; the bank requires your account details for monthly payments.

6. Property and Estate Agent Details

Ifthi:

If purchasing, lenders need the estate agent’s details for valuations.

For new builds, they’ll need the builder’s details.

If remortgaging, your own contact details are sufficient.

7. Solicitor Details

Ifthi:

For purchases or remortgages not using the bank’s solicitors, you need your solicitor’s contact information.

Ensure the solicitor is on the bank’s panel, or check if you can register them.

Q2: Are there additional documents for contractors?

Ifthi: Yes. Contractors may need:

• Contract(s) to verify employment.
• CV to prove work history.
• Tax returns and tax overviews (SA302) to show proper tax payments.
• Payslips from umbrella companies (especially for IR35 contractors, sometimes 3 months to 1 year of payslips).

Q3: What documents do self-employed applicants need?

Ifthi:

• Company accounts for directors or business accounts for sole proprietors/partners.
• SA302s and tax overviews to verify taxes paid.
• Three months of business bank statements to show ongoing profitability.

Q4: Are there other documents or checks?

Ifthi:

• Payslips for employed applicants (may need more if recent starter).
• Three-year address history.
• National Insurance number.
• Soft information like dependents may be requested.
• Some lenders require certified copies of documents (often via post office, sometimes solicitors).

Q5: Any advice for applicants?

Ifthi:

Plan documents early, especially if buying in 6 months.

Expired ID or missing documents can delay your application.

For gifted deposits from overseas, banks require audit trails.

Rules can differ between lenders, so seek advice early.

Gemma:

Because rates change frequently, having documents ready allows faster submission once your offer is accepted, avoiding missed opportunities.

Conclusion

Gemma:

Document requirements vary by employment type and lender, but planning early is key.

Speak to an advisor to ensure you have everything ready.

A mortgage is secured against your home or property and may be repossessed if you do not keep up with repayments.

Thank you for joining us! We’ll be back next week with another episode of Let’s Talk Money and Mortgages.