Probationary Period Mortgage FAQ
General information only. This is not financial advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-06
Can I get a mortgage while still on a probationary period?
Yes — some lenders accept applications from borrowers within a probationary period. Key factors include how far through the probation you are, whether the new role is in the same industry as your prior employment, your overall employment history, and whether you have a written offer letter confirming salary and contract type. The pool of available lenders is smaller than for those who have passed probation, so a specialist broker who knows which lenders accept probation cases is essential.
Which lenders accept mortgage applications during probation?
Most mainstream high-street banks require applicants to have completed probation before offer or completion. A number of specialist lenders and building societies will lend during probation, provided the role is in the same or related industry and the wider employment profile is stable. Willingness to lend also depends on the probation length (shorter is better), the seniority of the role, and the overall application strength. Your broker will identify which lenders are currently accepting probation cases without requiring case-by-case exceptions.
Can I apply with just an offer letter before starting the job?
Some lenders accept applications based on a formal written offer letter before your start date — provided it confirms job title, start date, salary, and whether the role is permanent or fixed-term. However, most lenders require you to have started the role and received at least one payslip before the mortgage completes (not just before exchange). If you plan to exchange contracts before starting, confirm the lender's requirements on employment evidence at drawdown to avoid last-minute issues.
Does the industry matter when applying on probation?
Yes. A move to the same or closely related profession — a nurse changing trusts, a solicitor changing firms, an engineer switching employers — is viewed much more favourably than a full career change. Lenders see continuity of skills and earning potential as indicators of employment security. A role change that also involves an industry switch raises the most concern. The strongest probation applications show: continuous employment history, comparable or higher salary, and a clear career progression rationale.
What if my probation period is extended after I have exchanged contracts?
You must disclose any material change in your employment status to your lender between exchange and completion — this includes a probation extension. Not disclosing it breaches most mortgage offer conditions. The lender may proceed, request further review, or in rare cases withdraw the offer. Tell your broker immediately when you know about an extension so they can manage the communication with the lender and assess any risk to your mortgage before completion.
Can a contractor on their very first contract get a mortgage?
Some lenders will consider it. The strongest first-contract applications show: significant prior employed experience in the same field, a high day rate or a contract at a well-known organisation, and a clear reason for moving to contracting. Day-rate-based income assessment (Day Rate × 5 × 46 weeks) is typically more generous than using net limited company income from accounts. Without any prior contracting history, fewer lenders are available, but a specialist contractor mortgage broker will know the current market.
Risk warning
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Changes in employment between exchange and completion must be disclosed to your lender immediately.
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