Mortgage for a Property with Japanese Knotweed – Case Study

Securing a mortgage on a house affected by Japanese knotweed is tricky—but not impossible. I recently helped a client buying a property in Haslemere where knotweed was found 10m from the house, within the boundary.

Neither the client nor I knew of its presence when applying. It only surfaced during a structural survey. The case was already complex due to self-employed income and finding a lender offering sufficient funds.

A treatment plan was in place, but the lender wanted proof of treatment already started. Since knotweed is dormant in winter, spraying in November (when it was arranged) is ineffective. However, I noticed the report mentioned past treatment and no new growth.

After investigating, I uncovered that the local council had treated the area previously. A surveyor confirmed this and kindly provided a written report, which I submitted to the lender. Thanks to this evidence, an exception was made.

I specialise in mortgages for properties with Japanese knotweed and complex lending situations. If you’re buying or selling such a property, I can help secure the mortgage you need.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.