- Written by UK Debt Support Editorial Team
- Last Updated: 26 January 2026
IVA and Mortgage
If you have a mortgage and are considering an IVA, it is normal to worry about how your home and future borrowing might be affected. Many people tell us their biggest fear is losing their property or never being accepted for a mortgage again. The good news is that an IVA and mortgage can work together safely when you understand how the process works. At UK Debt Support we guide homeowners through IVA decisions every day, helping them protect their homes and regain financial stability.
In this guide we explore what happens to your mortgage during an IVA, how equity is handled, and what your options look like once the IVA ends.
Is Renting Possible With An IVA
Summary
In this article you will learn how an IVA and mortgage work together, what happens to your home during an IVA, how long the IVA affects your credit file, how to rebuild your score and how to improve your chances of getting a mortgage after your IVA. You will also see how UK Debt Support can help you stay secure and avoid creditor or bailiff pressure.
Can You Have an IVA and Mortgage at the Same Time
Many people enter an IVA while holding a mortgage. Your mortgage is a priority bill and is always paid before your IVA payment. The IVA covers unsecured debts such as credit cards, loans and overdrafts, while your mortgage remains separate.
When we speak to clients, the first question is often whether they can still get a mortgage in the future. IVA and mortgage concerns are very common, but having an IVA does not prevent future home ownership. In fact, for many people, unmanageable debts and missed payments can harm their mortgage prospects more than an IVA would.
An IVA often removes pressure, freezes interest and stabilises your finances. This puts you in a stronger position to rebuild after the arrangement ends.
Will I Lose My Home If I Enter an IVA
The simple answer is no. An IVA is designed to help you manage unsecured debt while keeping your essential assets safe, including your home. As long as your mortgage payments stay up to date, your property is usually protected.
If you already have mortgage arrears, your Insolvency Practitioner will review your budget and explore solutions that focus on keeping your home secure. Guidance from Citizens Advice and StepChange also confirms that IVAs are commonly used by homeowners who want to avoid repossession.
What Happens to Home Equity in an IVA
In the final year of your IVA, your Insolvency Practitioner will check whether you have any significant equity in your home. This is a standard part of the IVA protocol and does not mean you will need to sell your home.
If equity exists, your IP may ask you to attempt a remortgage to contribute more to your debts. Most people cannot remortgage during an IVA because lenders usually decline applications when an IVA is active.
If you cannot release equity, your IVA usually extends by 12 months instead. This is common, protects your home and ensures creditors still receive a fair contribution.
Can You Remortgage During an IVA
Remortgaging during an IVA is very difficult because most lenders rely heavily on credit assessments and will see your IVA on your credit file. Some lenders will only offer higher interest rates, which is usually not advisable.
If you believe you need a remortgage for essential reasons, you must speak to your Insolvency Practitioner first. They will confirm whether it is permitted within the terms of your IVA.
For most homeowners, the best approach is to complete the IVA and rebuild your credit before applying for any new mortgage products.
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How Long Does an IVA Stay on Your Credit File
Your credit file usually contains six years of financial history. Because most IVAs last five to six years, your IVA may remain on your file for up to one year after completion.
Your IVA will be removed automatically after six years from the start date. Many mortgage brokers prefer applicants to wait until the IVA drops off the file before applying, because this increases the chances of approval.
How Do You Check If Your IVA Is Still on Your Credit File
You can request a copy of your credit report from any of the main UK credit reference agencies. These include Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. A one off request typically costs around two pounds.
This lets you see exactly what lenders will see. It is worth checking all three reports, because not all lenders use the same agency.
Can You Get a Mortgage After an IVA
Yes. Having an IVA does not stop you from getting a mortgage in the future. Once your IVA is completed and later removed from your credit file, you will be in a much stronger position.
If your IVA ends after five years, it can be sensible to wait the final year for it to drop off. In the meantime, you can start rebuilding your credit score with steady habits and careful budgeting.
If you plan ahead and manage your finances well, getting a mortgage after an IVA becomes a realistic goal.
How to Build Your Credit Score After an IVA
Once your IVA is complete, the following steps can help you rebuild your credit score:
Get proof your IVA is complete
Ask your Insolvency Practitioner for a completion certificate. This confirms your IVA has finished and can help ensure your credit file updates correctly.
Check your details regularly
Review your credit report to make sure any IVA related debts are marked as settled. Registering on the electoral roll improves your score by confirming your identity and stability.
Pay your bills on time
Reliability is essential for credit rebuilding. Setting up direct debits can help prevent missed payments.
Be patient
Small, consistent changes often lead to the best results. Many people see noticeable improvements within 12 months of their IVA ending.
What To Consider Before Applying for a Mortgage After an IVA
Getting a mortgage after an IVA needs a careful and patient approach:
Consider a mortgage broker
A qualified broker can provide guidance tailored to your situation. They may have access to lenders who consider applicants with past IVAs.
Be careful with specialist lenders
Some lenders advertise bad credit mortgages with guarantees of acceptance. These often come with high interest rates and fees. It is important to be cautious and compare options.
Think long term
There can be real advantages to waiting until your credit score has had time to recover and you have saved a larger deposit. The stronger your credit profile, the better your mortgage deals will be.
Conclusion
Understanding how an IVA and mortgage interact can help remove a lot of fear and uncertainty. Your home is usually protected, your mortgage remains a priority, and equity checks are handled with care. With the right guidance an IVA can even make your long term goals more achievable by removing unmanageable debt.
If you are worried about creditor pressure, arrears or losing control of your finances, UK Debt Support is here to help. Our team can guide you through your IVA options and help protect your home from escalation or bailiff action.
Key Takeaways
Renting is possible while in an IVA.
Your IVA will show on credit checks, but it is not a legal barrier.
Being honest and prepared helps you secure a rental property.
You must tell your Insolvency Practitioner before moving.
UK Debt Support can guide you through renting and debt management together.
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all your questions
Will an IVA affect my current mortgage?
No. Your mortgage stays separate and is treated as a priority payment.
Can I remortgage during my IVA?
Most lenders will not approve new applications during an IVA.
How long does an IVA stay on my credit file?
Six years from the start date.
Can I get a mortgage after my IVA ends?
Yes. Your chances improve significantly once the IVA drops off your file.
How do I check if my IVA is still showing on my credit file?
Request your reports from Experian, Equifax or TransUnion.
How long does an IVA stay on my credit file?
It remains for six years from the start date, even if you finish paying earlier.
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Adam Southard is authorised as a Licensed Insolvency Practitioner in the United Kingdom by the Insolvency Practitioners Association, We only provide advice after completing or receiving an initial fact find where the individual(s) concerned meet the criteria for one of our insolvency solutions, therefore, all advice regarding Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVA) is given in reasonable contemplation of an insolvency appointment.
Adam Southard is licensed to act as an Insolvency Practitioner in the UK by the Insolvency Practitioners Association. Office Holder No. 11930
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