Modern build/ECO home
A modern, eco-friendly new build home with non-standard construction.
Underwriting
Our human-centric approach to underwriting.
At Canada Life, we know that no two clients, properties or retirement plans are the same. That is why our underwriting approach is deliberately flexible and pragmatic. Rather than relying solely on rigid rules, we look at the full picture to help more customers access the retirement funding they need.
Our underwriters work closely with advisers to understand each case in detail, considering the client’s circumstances, the property and any complexities that sit around it.
Wherever possible, we look for ways to say yes – not reasons to say no.
Talk to an underwriter
A broad view on property
We are open to a wide variety of property types and constructions, so your clients are not limited to the most conventional homes. Subject to our usual checks, we will consider:
- Properties with up to 100% flat roofs
- Ex‑local authority flats
- Modern builds
- Grade listed properties
Even for properties that might sit outside traditional lending criteria, our experienced underwriters are available to discuss cases directly and explore suitable solutions.
Lending criteria that goes further
Here are just some of the case types that underline how our criteria can support your clients:
- Properties of cob, wattle and daub construction, with any number of bedrooms, unlimited acreage and thatched roofs
- Grade listed properties, including those with up to a 25% flying freehold
- Properties with a service charge of up to 2.5%
- Houses located close to commercial elements
- Retentions up to £10,000
- Less than 6 months’ ownership, where the client has rights to reside
- Properties with lodgers or Airbnb occupiers in annexes
- Sole applications from married applicants
In addition, our team can help shape complex cases that may involve:
- Title splits
- Amendments to existing titles
- Access rights being added
By engaging early with our underwriters, you can often find a clear path through cases that might initially appear challenging.
Please note that these may need to be completed by your client's own acting solicitor prior to completion. Please refer to our standard lending criteria for more information.
Partnership with advisers
We see underwriting as a collaborative process. If you are unsure whether a case is acceptable, our underwriters are happy to discuss the details and provide guidance before you submit an application. This can help you manage client expectations, structure cases effectively and avoid unnecessary delays.
Case‑by‑case decisions
Please note that all applications are assessed on a case‑by‑case basis. Meeting the criteria outlined above does not guarantee acceptance, and all lending is subject to our full underwriting assessment, valuation and legal checks.
If your client is looking to port an existing Canada Life mortgage, we can usually consider this under our standard underwriting approach, subject to eligibility and product availability.
For full details, including our porting process and criteria, please refer to our latest guide to porting , our standard lending criteria , or get in touch with our underwriting team, who will be happy to talk through your client’s circumstances.
Get in touch
Our underwriting team are available to discuss complex cases directly, either by email or over the phone:
- Phone: 0800 068 0212
- Email : hf-underwriting@canadalife.co.uk
Case studies
Useful resources
Adviser Portal
Our Home Finance Adviser Portal offers you a modern user experience that saves you time and makes it easier to support your clients. The portal helps you to generate quotes, submit applications and track case progress simply and at your convenience.
