Can you get a mortgage on a flat when it does not have a lift?

In most cases, yes. Many UK lenders will consider mortgages on flats without a lift, particularly in low-rise buildings. However, acceptance depends on several key factors — mainly the floor level, property type, and future resaleability.

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Why Do Lenders Care About Lifts?

Mortgage lenders assess risk. A flat without a lift can be seen as higher risk because:

• It may appeal to a smaller pool of buyers

• It could be less suitable for older residents or families

• Resale may be harder in the future, especially on higher floors

This doesn’t always mean many lenders automatically decline — it just means they look more closely.

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How Floor Level Affects Mortgage Approval

This is the single most important factor.

Generally Acceptable

• Ground to 4th floor
  Most lenders are comfortable lending on these, even without a lift.

More Challenging

• Above 4th floor 
  Many mainstream lenders will decline unless there is a lift.

Some lenders have strict limits, while others are more flexible — this is where expert advice makes a real difference. Here is list of some of the mortgage lenders:

Mortgage lender	Lift policy
Accord Mortgages	Flats over 4 storeys must have adequate lift arrangements.
April Mortgages	Accept flats in a block without a lift where our security is on the 4th floor or below.
Bank of Ireland	Flats over 4 storeys must have adequate lift arrangements.
Barclays	No maximum or minimum limit. This will be subject to physical inspection by surveyor.
The Co-operative Bank	Subject to satisfactory valuation and valuers comments. No restrictions in policy on the no. of floors without a lift.
Halifax for Intermediaries	No maximum. Each application will be assessed on its own merits
Metro Bank	No Maximum except Ex -Local Authority where the maximum is 6. If the building has more than 4 storeys it must have a lift.
Skipton Building Society	For flats, if there are more than 5 floors, then a lift is required.
Virgin Money	Over 5 storeys, the property must be lift serviced

Source: Knowledge Bank

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Other Factors Lenders Consider

Beyond floor level, lenders will also assess:

• Type of building (purpose-built vs converted house)

• Local market demand for similar flats

• Condition of communal areas

• Length of lease (ideally 85+ years remaining)

• Fire safety compliance, especially post-Grenfell

A well-maintained building in a desirable area can significantly improve your chances.

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Do Mortgage Rates Change?

Usually no — if the lender is happy with the property, rates are typically the same as for any standard flat.

However:

• Fewer lenders available may reduce choice

• Specialist or niche lenders can sometimes be significantly more expensive

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Buying vs Remortgaging a Flat Without a Lift

• Buying: More scrutiny, especially from surveyors

• Remortgaging: Often easier if the lender already accepted the property before

If you already own the flat and are remortgaging, options are often broader.

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How a Mortgage Broker Helps

Because criteria vary so widely, speaking to an experienced broker can save time and stress. Trinity Financial's brokers can:

• Identify lenders happy with walk-up flats

• Pre-check property suitability before application

• Reduce the risk of valuation down-valuations or declines

This is particularly important for third-floor or higher flats.

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The Bottom Line

✔ Yes, you can get a mortgage on a flat without a lift
✔ Low-rise flats are usually fine
⚠ Higher floors require specialist knowledge
✔ Expert advice can significantly improve success

If you’re unsure whether your flat will be accepted, it’s always best to check before submitting an application.

Lending solutions with Trinity Financial

Are you looking to buy a property and require expert advice? We’re here to help you find a solution – no matter how complex your circumstances. Our expert brokers have extensive experience providing creative solutions to secure mortgages for our clients.

Call Trinity Financial on 020 7016 0790 to secure a fixed or tracker rate mortgage or book a consultation

The information contained within was correct at the time of publication but is subject to change.

Your mortgage is secured on your property. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage