Debt solutions
Updated 9 July 2026
A guide to IVAs and mortgages
Find out how an IVA may affect your existing mortgage and any future applications you make.
Can you get a mortgage with an IVA?
It’s unlikely you’ll be able to a get a new mortgage while you’re on an IVA. You won’t be able to take out more than £500 of credit without written approval from the company managing your IVA. It will also be difficult to find a lender who is prepared to give you a mortgage.
Will starting an IVA impact my existing mortgage?
Your existing mortgage won’t be included in your IVA. This means you’ll need to carry on making your payments as normal. There should be money in your agreed budget to allow for this.
Your mortgage payments may change during your IVA e.g. if interest rates go up. If this happens, just let the company managing your IVA know and they’ll look into getting your IVA payments adjusted.
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How long after an IVA can I apply for a mortgage?
An IVA stays on your credit file for six years from the date it was agreed or until it completes (if that’s longer than six years). While you have an IVA on your credit report, you’ll probably struggle to get a mortgage. There are specialist lenders who will consider your application, but this is likely to be an expensive option.
Once the IVA drops off your credit report, it may still be hard to get a mortgage. You will need to build up your credit score before most lenders will consider lending large sums to you. Once your IVA has finished, it’s probably a good idea to focus on improving your credit score before you think about taking out a mortgage.
Boosting your credit rating will take time, but there are certain steps you can take to get the process moving:
- check you’re on the electoral register
- make sure all the information on your credit file is correct
- borrow small amounts from companies that specialise in lending to people trying to rebuild their credit rating
- always make your repayments on time and in full to show potential lenders that you’re a low-risk customer
Will I have to remortgage if I take out an IVA?
No, you won't be asked to remortgage your home or release equity during an IVA. If you own a property, the level of equity in your home will be assessed at the start of your IVA. In some cases, this could mean you need to make payments for an additional 12 months.
Written by: Rebecca Routledge
Head of Content
A qualified journalist for over 15 years with a background in financial services. Rebecca is Money Wellness’s consumer champion, helping you improve your financial wellbeing by providing information on everything from income maximisation to budgeting and saving tips.
Last updated: 9 July 2026
It’s unlikely you’ll be able to a get a new mortgage while you’re on an IVA.
You won’t be able to take out more than £500 of credit without written approval from the company managing your IVA.
It will also be difficult to find a lender who is prepared to give you a mortgage.
Written by: Rebecca Routledge
Head of Content
Last updated: 9 July 2026