- Lender duty
- Must treat customers in difficulty fairly
- Repossession
- A last resort that needs a court order
- First step
- Contact your lender as soon as you expect a problem
- Free help
- Several charities offer free mortgage advice
On this page
Act early
The earlier you talk to your lender, the more options you usually have. Lenders do not want to take possession, and the FCA requires them to treat customers in financial difficulty with forbearance. Do not ignore letters. Tell them about any change in circumstances and ask what help is available.
What lenders can offer
- A temporary switch to interest-only payments.
- Extending the term to reduce monthly payments.
- A short payment break or reduced payments.
- Adding arrears to the balance, or an agreed plan to clear them.
Many lenders signed up to the Mortgage Charter, which includes commitments such as not starting repossession within 12 months of the first missed payment except in exceptional circumstances. Check the exact terms with your lender.
Talk to a free adviser first
An adviser can look at your whole budget, deal with creditors for you and explain which option suits you. Get free debt advice.
What to do
- Work out a budget and see what you can afford to pay.
- Contact your lender and ask for help. Be honest and keep a note of conversations.
- Check whether you can claim extra benefits or Support for Mortgage Interest.
- Prioritise the mortgage over credit cards and loans.
- Get free advice before agreeing anything.
If the lender starts possession
The lender must follow the courts’ pre-action steps, including trying to agree a plan with you, before applying. If it does apply, the court can adjourn, suspend or delay possession if you can show you can repay. Never ignore court papers, and go to the hearing. Free housing and debt advice is often available at court.
Other options
- Sell the home or downsize before things get worse, which can avoid possession.
- Deal with unsecured debts through a debt management plan or an IVA, while keeping up the mortgage. See our secured loan guide too.
- Breathing Space pauses enforcement for 60 days while you get advice, though you usually still need to keep up current payments.
Free advice: MoneyHelper, StepChange, Citizens Advice and National Debtline.
Frequently asked questions
Can my lender repossess my home straight away?
No. It has to follow a process, try to agree a plan and apply to the court, and the court can delay possession.
What if I am in negative equity?
Talk to your lender and an adviser. Selling may leave a shortfall, so check your options before deciding.
Will missed mortgage payments affect my credit file?
Yes. Arrears are recorded and can make future borrowing harder.
Can I get help with mortgage interest?
If you receive certain benefits you may be able to claim Support for Mortgage Interest. It is usually a loan, and there is a waiting period.
What if my fixed rate is ending?
Talk to your lender early about new deals. If your payments will rise, ask about longer terms or interest-only periods while you plan.
This guide gives general information and is not personal advice. Rules and limits change, so check with a free adviser before acting. Last reviewed 11 November 2026.