Does Spray Foam Insulation Affect House Insurance?

Most people have heard about spray foam causing problems with mortgages — but what about home insurance?

It’s a lesser-known issue, but some UK insurers are now refusing cover, increasing premiums, or placing conditions on properties with spray foam insulation in the loft.

Here’s why it’s happening, what questions to ask your provider, and how to avoid running into problems down the line.

Why Insurers Are Getting Wary

Spray foam, particularly closed-cell foam, changes the way a roof performs:

• It blocks ventilation
• Hides structural issues
• Makes repairs harder to detect or carry out

If something goes wrong — like a leak or rot in the roof — it’s much harder to spot or fix. That increases risk for insurers, and some now see spray foam as a non-standard construction material.

What Your Insurer Might Ask

When applying for home insurance or renewing a policy, you may be asked:

• Is there any spray foam insulation in the property?
• Was it professionally installed with documentation?
• Is the loft ventilated and accessible?
• Has a surveyor or assessor approved the installation?

If the answers are unclear or suggest a risk, you could face:

• A declined policy
• Higher excesses or premiums
• Conditions added to your cover

Can You Be Refused a Payout?

In theory, yes — especially if:

• Spray foam has contributed to a roof failure
• It was installed without proper checks
• It made an issue worse that you didn’t disclose

This is particularly relevant for storm damage, leaks, or structural concerns. If your insurer believes spray foam made the damage harder to detect or more expensive to fix, they could reject the claim.

What If You Didn’t Know It Was There?

Many homeowners inherit spray foam from previous owners. If you're not sure whether it’s in your loft:

• Take a look yourself — foam is usually hard, yellow or white, and sprayed directly on roof tiles or rafters
• Or ask a professional to inspect it for you

You can also read our guide on spotting spray foam here.

Can Removal Solve the Problem?

In most cases, yes.

At Snug & Secure, we carefully remove spray foam insulation, re-insulate with breathable materials, and provide:

• A certificate of removal
• Before-and-after photos
• Guidance to help your insurer or mortgage provider update their records

This not only protects your home — it gives you clean documentation for the future.

Final Thoughts

Spray foam insulation might have started as a quick energy upgrade — but it can lead to insurance headaches down the line.

If you're unsure how it affects your cover, check with your provider — and if needed, talk to us about safe, compliant removal. You can contact us directly, or read more on our blog.