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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 difficulty 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 problem is only temporary - as you could lose your home. You can contact Shelter's dedicated homeowner helpline on 0300 3300 515 or use our directory to find face-to-face advice services in your area.

This section outlines some of the options you may have. You can also download one of our leaflets:

Are you worried about your mortgage? (produced by the National Homelessness Advice Service (NHAS), a partnership between Shelter and Citizens Advice)
Mortgage problems: Separating the myths from reality (a joint Shelter/Bradford and Bingley publication)
or the more detailed Shelter housing advice booklet about mortage arrears.

If you rent your home and your landlord has mortgage arrears, you have far less protection and you should get advice immediately.

Government help for struggling homeowners

The Government has announced a number of new initiatives to help avoid repossessions over the past few months. Read more

Homeowners Mortgage Support

HMS is a Government initiative designed to help homeowners who are struggling to meet their mortgage payments because of a temporary drop in income. Find out how it works and whether you are eligible. Read more

Government mortgage rescue scheme

This government-funded initiative provides shared equity loans and ‘mortgage to rent’ schemes to eligible households who are at risk of repossession. Read more

Support for mortgage interest

If you are claiming certain benefits, you may be able to get help with your mortgage interest and interest on loans you have taken out for repairs or improvements. Read more

Tackling mortgage arrears

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

Negotiating with lenders

Negotiating with lenders can be complicated and stressful, but this is often the best way to find a solution to mortgage arrears problems. 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

Renting out the property

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, and you will still be responsible for paying the mortgage until the property is sold. Read more