It is thought that around 250,000 homes are currently considered ineligible for mortgages. Lenders are fearing the long-term effects of spray foam polyurethane (PU). The quick insulation method is thought to provide near instant improvements to a property’s energy conservation.

Many experts believe that the spray insulation can cause damp issues within roofs and rotten beams. Some installers are believed to have been using the incorrect foam or not checking whether the insulation method was right for the home. The result is homeowners facing expensive bills to remove the foam and replace the insulation.

The spray foam’s quick installation is attractive to homeowners who are seeking a way to combat the ever increasing energy bills. The foam has reportedly been able to save households enough money on their monthly energy costs that the installation of the foam can have recouped itself in less than 5 years.

Why is Spray Foam Risky?

The industry is currently unregulated. Which has led to a rising concern that cowboy firms have been using the wrong type of foam, or that the property was unsuitable to be foamed in the first place.

This has led homeowners to find it difficult to re-mortgage, unlock equity or sell their homes. Surveyors are unable to check the condition of the roof timbers once they have been sprayed and lenders are likely to deem these properties too high a risk.

What’s the Solution?

The Insulation Manufactures Association is collaborating to standardise an insulation procedure and develop inspection protocols.

In the meantime, homeowners are advised to only work with installers who complete a hydrothermal evaluation which has them report on the condition of the roof, the felt and the risk of condensation. Even so, this paperwork only increases the homeowner’s chances of being able to sell or re-mortgage, it doesn’t guarantee it.

Elizabeth Lalli-Reese the global vice president of Huntsman Building solutions, a spray foam specialist defends its use saying that, “spray foam is a proven technology making our homes more efficient and is a practical, sensible and safe option for homeowners.”

While an outright ban on the substance is not on the cards for The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, their advice for homeowners is to get an independent expert to check that their home is suitable before installing the insulation.

What to do if you are struggling to sell.

While industry regulation and more succinct advice might help homeowners going forward, for those who have already had the insulation installed they are still facing the difficulty of selling their homes. The auction method of sale may just be the answer.

The traditional auction method allows sellers to sell quickly and with contracted timescales. Through the production of an auction pack prior to an auction it ensures that potential buyers are sufficiently informed before they bid or offer.

At Whoobid, we have an extensive investor database, many of whom are on the lookout for properties that need work.