The Pitfalls of Selling a Steel Frame House

Case Study

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Background

Steel-framed homes built in the UK during the mid-1900s are known for their strength and practicality. However, selling them can be difficult. Many lenders see these properties as non-standard, so getting a mortgage often depends on the results of the buyer’s survey.

Discover the history and design of B1 Aluminium Bungalows, Britain’s post-war housing innovation. Learn about their construction, benefits, challenges, and modern updates.

Challenge

A common situation we see is this:

  • A homeowner lists their property.
  • An offer is accepted.
  • The buyer’s survey sometimes highlights the steel frame and may note the presence of corrosion.
  • The lender could decline the mortgage, potentially causing the sale to fall through and the property to be labelled “un-mortgageable”

Once this happens, the property is typically considered “un-mortgageable”, homeowners have fewer buyers to choose from and are more likely to see offers withdrawn.

The Consequences for Homeowners

  • Collapsed sales chains – Buyers pull out when finance is declined.
  • Reduced market value – With only cash purchasers interested, offers are often well below expectations.
  • Delays and frustration – Selling becomes stressful and unpredictable.

Solution

We follow a straightforward, proven process with three main steps:

  1. Inspection – An intrusive survey is conducted to assess the condition of the steel frame and identify any signs of corrosion.
  2. Repairs – Where problems are found, corroded or weakened sections of the frame are repaired or replaced to restore structural integrity.
  3. Certification – A structural engineer’s certificate is produced to confirm the property’s condition and provide the documentation most lenders require.

All our work comes with a 20 year certificate of structural adequacy. Many homeowners have used this process and found it gives both sellers and buyers the confidence they need.

Outcome

Once the repairs are certified, your steel-framed home can once again qualify for a standard mortgage. This means more buyers, a smoother sale, and enhanced protection for your property’s value.

Key Advice for Sellers

If you want to sell a steel-framed house, acting early really helps. Getting an inspection before you list can help you avoid surprises and save both time and money.

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