May 4, 2025
If you’ve just had a mortgage rejected or an equity release blocked due to spray foam insulation, your first question might be: “Is this stuff even allowed?”
It’s a fair reaction — and one we hear a lot. While spray foam isn't illegal in the UK, its use has become controversial for good reason.
Let’s break down the legal status, where it’s allowed, and why it continues to cause issues despite being technically permitted.
No — spray foam is not banned. It is still legal to install and use in residential and commercial properties across the UK.
However:
This means quality can vary massively from one job to the next — and many older homes have spray foam that was applied with little care or documentation.
Because even though it’s legal, spray foam introduces risk.
Closed-cell spray foam in particular:
As a result, surveyors often note the presence of spray foam in their reports — and many lenders respond by:
Legal? Yes. Mortgage-friendly? Not always.
Not inherently — but it can be, depending on how it’s applied.
If spray foam insulation:
…then it may breach parts of the Building Regulations. Unfortunately, many homeowners don't find this out until years later — often when a sale or survey brings the issue to light.
Having spray foam doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong — but it could be time to reassess.
At Snug & Secure, we specialise in helping homeowners safely remove spray foam from lofts and install breathable insulation that’s fully compliant and mortgage-safe.
We also provide documentation, before-and-after photos, and peace of mind for anyone planning to sell or remortgage.
Spray foam insulation is legal — but that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. If it’s been installed in your loft, it could affect how your home is valued, mortgaged, or insured.
If you're unsure whether it needs to come out, get in touch for a friendly, no-pressure assessment — or browse our blog for more clear advice on the topic.
Spray foam insulation isn’t just a mortgage issue — it can also raise concerns with insurers. Here’s how it affects cover, and what to do if your policy is at risk.
Read more >>Trying to remortgage but the survey flagged spray foam? Here’s why lenders are cautious — and what steps to take if you want your application approved.
Read more >>Spray foam won’t rot your roof on its own — but it can trap moisture against the timbers, leading to hidden damage. Here’s how it happens and what to look out for.
Read more >>