The mortgage contract and lender's written decision determine whether the proposed letting is permitted. A change from owner occupation, a company transfer or a different letting type may require a fresh check.
Define the proposal
- Identify the legal owner, property, intended occupants and tenancy type.
- Explain whether the proposal is an ordinary residential let, HMO or another arrangement.
- Check restrictions on the term, occupants, management or ownership structure.
Obtain and understand consent
- Ask the lender through its proper process and retain the response.
- Check fees, rate changes, duration and conditions rather than relying on an informal telephone summary.
- Resolve any condition that conflicts with current tenancy law with the lender and adviser.
Keep it current
- Review before renewal, a change in occupancy, significant works or ownership transfer.
- Keep insurance and lease permissions separate.
- Do not promise a tenancy arrangement that depends on permission still outstanding.
Example: temporary consent expires
A fictional lender grants consent for a limited period. Set a review well before it ends and clarify the next mortgage arrangement. The tenant's legal rights do not simply disappear when the lender's consent period expires.
What to do
- Read the mortgage conditions and describe the proposed letting accurately.
- Obtain the lender's written permission or appropriate mortgage arrangement.
- Record conditions and review dates before committing to the tenancy.
Evidence to keep
- Mortgage terms, consent request and written decision.
- Conditions, expiry or review dates and relevant adviser correspondence.
Sources and guidance
- Landlord responsibilities and mortgage permissionUK Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Being a private landlordScottish Government · checked 20 October 2026