Agency Worker Mortgage FAQ
General information only. This is not financial advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-06
Can an agency worker get a mortgage in the UK?
Yes. Agency workers can get mortgages, but the application requires more preparation than a standard employed application. Lenders want to see a consistent track record of earnings rather than permanent employment status. Most require at least 12 months of agency work — with the same client or in the same sector — evidenced through payslips, bank statements, and P60s. A specialist broker can target lenders with flexible criteria for temporary and agency-based employment.
How long do I need to have been an agency worker to get a mortgage?
Most lenders require a minimum of 12 months of continuous agency work, though some will consider applications after six months if the placement history is with the same client or in the same sector. A track record of unbroken agency work in the same field — even across different clients — is far more reassuring than a patchy employment history. Gaps between placements of more than a few weeks may need to be explained.
What documents do agency workers need for a mortgage?
You will typically need payslips from the last three months, your P60 from the previous tax year, three to six months of bank statements showing salary credits, and confirmation of your current assignment from the agency. Some lenders also request a letter from the agency confirming your contract rate and expected continuation of work. Where your pay rate varies between assignments, lenders will usually average your earnings over the available history.
Will gaps between agency placements affect my mortgage application?
Short gaps — a week or two between placements — are generally acceptable, especially with a consistent return to work in the same sector. Longer gaps of a month or more attract scrutiny and should be explained proactively. Seasonal gaps in industries like teaching or hospitality are well understood by some specialist lenders. Your broker can advise on whether your specific gap pattern is likely to cause issues and which lenders are most accommodating.
Are agency workers treated differently from contractors for mortgage purposes?
Agency workers and contractors are often assessed under similar criteria — both are in non-permanent employment with variable assignment lengths. The key difference is that contractors typically have a direct contract with the client, sometimes operating through a limited company or umbrella arrangement, whereas agency workers are employed by the agency itself. Lenders familiar with contractor mortgages tend to also accommodate agency workers well. Some apply day-rate or annualised income calculations to both groups.
Which mortgage lenders accept agency worker income?
Most high-street lenders will consider agency workers on a case-by-case basis, but specialist lenders and building societies with flexible underwriting are typically more receptive. Lenders who take a manual underwriting approach — reviewing your full employment history rather than running it through an automated system — can make better-informed decisions. A mortgage broker with whole-of-market access will give you the broadest range of options for your situation.
Risk warning
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Lending decisions are subject to affordability assessment and lender-specific criteria.
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