Mortgage arrears

This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. This page applies to England only. Get advice relating to Scotland

Many homeowners have problems paying their mortgages, often when they lose a job, split up with a partner or have unexpected expenses. If you're struggling to pay, you need to act quickly - even if the problems are only temporary.

If the mortgage isn't paid, you could risk losing your home. But in many cases repossession can be stopped or delayed, even after a court order has been made. If you rent your home and your landlord has mortgage arrears, you have far less protection and you should get advice as soon as you possibly can.  

Download 'Mortgage problems: Separating the myths from reality' (a joint Shelter/Bradford and Bingley publication) and the Shelter guide to mortage arrears.

Tackling mortgage arrears

Keeping up with your mortgage payments should be your top financial priority. This page explains your options. Read more 

Reducing monthly payments

It may be possible to negotiate to reduce your monthly mortgage payments. Your options will depend on the type of mortgage you have. Read more 

Increasing income

If you have problems paying your mortgage, it may be possible to increase your income to make your mortgage more affordable. Read more 

Selling voluntarily

You may decide to sell your home to pay off your mortgage arrears. Read more 

Handing back the keys

Giving your keys to your lender is called voluntary repossession. It is not usually advisable and may increase your debts. Read more 

Mortgage rescue schemes

Think carefully before signing up to a mortgage rescue scheme. There may be major risks involved. Read more