After having spray foam insulation removed from your property, you'll need a spray foam removal certificate to prove to mortgage lenders that the work has been completed properly. Without this crucial document, your property may still be flagged in surveys and lending could still be refused.
This guide explains exactly what certificates are available, what they include, and how to ensure yours satisfies UK mortgage lenders.
Why Mortgage Lenders Require Removal Certificates
When a mortgage lender refuses a property due to spray foam, they need proof that the issue has been fully resolved before reconsidering. A removal certificate provides this proof by confirming:
- All spray foam has been completely removed from the roof space
- The underlying roof structure (timbers, tiles, battens, membranes) is in satisfactory condition
- No hidden damage such as timber rot or structural compromise remains
- The roof space can now be properly inspected by RICS surveyors
Types of Removal Certificates Available
Option 1: Digital Distance Certificate (£349 inc VAT)
A digital distance certificate is based on comprehensive photographic and video evidence of the cleared roof space. This option is suitable when:
- The spray foam was removed for mortgage or sale purposes (not due to structural damage)
- All spray foam has been completely removed with only minimal visual traces remaining
- There are no signs of rot, structural damage, or ongoing issues
The process:
- Complete a short qualification questionnaire
- Pay the certificate fee
- Submit comprehensive images and video of the entire loft area — all rafters from both sides, tops and bottoms of the roof visible
- An inspector reviews the submitted evidence
- If approved, your certificate and report are issued
Option 2: In-Person Inspection Certificate (£699 inc VAT)
An in-person inspection involves a qualified inspector physically visiting your property. This option is required when:
- Spray foam was removed because of rot, structural damage, or other physical problems
- The roof structure needed repairs during or after removal
- Your mortgage lender specifically requires a physical inspection
- You want the most comprehensive certification available
The process:
- Complete the qualification questionnaire
- Pay the inspection fee
- Inspector visits your property and conducts a thorough assessment
- Roof structural integrity is verified on-site
- Certificate and detailed report are issued
Upgrade Path: Digital to In-Person
If you initially obtain a digital certificate but your mortgage lender requires an in-person inspection, you can upgrade for an additional £400 (saving £50 compared to purchasing the in-person certificate independently).
What a Good Removal Certificate Includes
A certificate that will satisfy mortgage lenders should include:
- Property details — full address, property type, and roof construction type
- Removal confirmation — clear statement that all spray foam has been removed
- Structural assessment — condition of rafters, purlins, ridge boards, and other timbers
- Photographic evidence — before and after images showing the cleared roof space
- Damage report — identification of any damage found and repairs completed
- Inspector credentials — qualifications and professional memberships of the certifying inspector
- Date and validity — when the inspection was carried out and any expiry or review date
How to Ensure Your Certificate Is Accepted
To maximise the chances of your certificate being accepted by lenders:
- Use a reputable removal company that provides certification as part of their service
- Ensure complete removal — even small traces of foam can cause surveyors to raise concerns
- Document everything — photographs of the removal process provide additional evidence
- Check with your lender — some lenders have specific requirements for certification format
- Keep the original — store the certificate safely as it will be needed for future sales and remortgages
If you need spray foam removal and certification, contact us for a free quote. We provide competitive removal prices with full post-removal certification included.
