Mortgages for Zero Hour Contract Workers
A Simple Guide from Bright Money Independent
Getting a mortgage when you’re on a zero-hour contract can feel overwhelming — especially if you’ve only been in the role for a few months. But the reality is: it’s absolutely possible, and at Bright Money Independent, we help people in this exact situation every day.
Whether you’ve just started a new job, have years of experience in your industry, or you’re looking to borrow later in life (even up to the age of 80 next birthday), there are lenders out there who want to help. You just need someone who knows where to look – and that’s us – Bright Money.
Zero-Hour Contracts: What’s the Challenge ?
Zero-hour contracts are incredibly common now in sectors like care, hospitality, retail, logistics, and construction. But because your hours aren’t guaranteed, some high-street lenders can find it difficult to assess your income.
That’s where specialist lenders — and specialist brokers — make all the difference.
Can You Get a Mortgage on a Zero-Hour Contract?
Yes, you can. And more lenders are opening their doors to zero-hour applicants.
Here’s what they typically look at:
- How long you’ve been in the role – Some lenders want 12 months, but others are happy with as little as 3 months, especially if you can show strong industry experience.
- Your experience in the industry – If you’ve worked in your field for years, lenders see this as a good sign your income is reliable.
- Consistency of your hours – Even if hours vary, regular payslips help build a clear picture.
- Your age – We work with lenders who consider applications up to age 80 next birthday, giving more flexibility for later-life borrowing.
So even if you’ve only recently started a zero-hour role, you’re not ruled out.
What Will You Need to Apply?
Lenders just want to understand your income pattern. In most cases, they’ll ask for:
- 3–12 months of payslips (varies by lender)
- Bank statements (usually 3 months)
- Employment contract confirming your zero-hour status
- P60 (if you have one)
- A quick outline of your industry experience
If your hours are consistent and your experience is strong, three months can often be enough.
How We Help at Bright Money Independent
We know the lenders who genuinely understand flexible working — and we know how to present your application in the strongest possible way.
Here’s what we do:
Match you with the right lender
Not all lenders are created equal. We target the ones who actively work with zero-hour applicants.
Make your income story clear
We highlight your industry experience, earning pattern, and job stability to give lenders confidence.
Keep the process simple
No jargon. No stress. Just clear communication from start to finish.
Help older clients too
Because we work with lenders who lend up to age 80 next birthday, later-life borrowing becomes much more accessible.
Why Industry Experience Matters So Much
Even if you’re only three months into your current role, years of experience in your field count for a lot. It shows lenders you’re in stable, ongoing work within a familiar industry.
For example:
- A care worker with years in the sector but a recent job change
- A chef or bar manager who’s moved to a new employer
- A construction worker doing site-based work across multiple projects
Your experience is often just as important as your payslips.
Borrowing Up to Age 80 Next Birthday
One of our key strengths at Bright Money Independent is later-life lending.
We work with lenders who can consider:
- Older applicants
- Retirement Interest-Only (RIO) mortgages
- Borrowing that extends to age 80 next birthday
This gives far more flexibility for people moving into part-time or flexible roles later in life.
🌟Why Choose Bright Money ?
At Bright Money, we specialise in helping real clients get the right funding for their property.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Direct access to lenders – we compare leading banks and specialist lenders on your behalf.
- Personal service – one point of contact from enquiry to completion.
- Transparent fees – no hidden costs, no jargon.
- Experienced advisors – we’ve decades of internal mortgage experience that we’re ready to share with you.
FAQ
about
zero-hour
contract
mortgages
Can you get a mortgage on a zero-hour contract?
Yes. Many lenders will consider applicants on a zero-hour contract, although criteria varies between lenders. You will usually need to demonstrate that your income has been consistent over a period of time, supported by payslips and bank statements.
How much income history do I need for a zero-hour contract mortgage?
Most lenders prefer to see around 12 months of income history from zero-hour contract work. Some lenders may consider applications with as little as 6 months’ history if the work pattern is stable. In some cases, income may be averaged over 12–24 months.
Do all lenders accept zero-hour contract income?
No. Some lenders are cautious when assessing zero-hour contract income. However, there are both mainstream and specialist lenders that will consider it, provided you can show regular and reliable earnings.
What documents will I need for a mortgage as a zero-hour contract worker?
You will typically be asked to provide recent payslips (often covering 3–12 months), a P60, recent bank statements (usually 3 months), and your employment contract. If you are paid weekly, lenders may request a higher number of payslips.
Will lenders accept multiple zero-hour contracts?
Yes. Having income from multiple zero-hour contracts can be acceptable and may strengthen an application if the income from each role is consistent and well evidenced.
How do lenders assess affordability for zero-hour contract workers?
Lenders usually assess affordability by averaging your income over a set period. Some lenders may use a longer average, while others may take a more cautious approach depending on their criteria and your overall financial profile.
Will I need a larger deposit for a zero-hour contractor mortgage?
Not necessarily. Some lenders will accept deposits of 5–10%, while others may require 15% or more. The deposit required often depends on how stable your income appears and the lender’s risk assessment.
Are interest rates higher for zero-hour contract mortgages?
In some cases, interest rates may be slightly higher if a lender views the income as higher risk. However, applicants with strong evidence of stable income may still be able to access competitive mortgage rates.
Can I get a mortgage if I only started a zero-hour job recently?
It can be more challenging. Many lenders prefer at least 6–12 months of income history. Exceptions may be possible if you have a long track record working in the same industry or role.
Does overtime count towards my mortgage affordability as a zero-hour worker?
Yes. Overtime, bonuses, and other variable pay can often be included, provided they are regular and clearly evidenced. Lenders usually average this income over several months or up to a year.
Can agency workers on zero-hour contracts get a mortgage?
Yes. Some lenders will accept agency income where the work pattern is consistent and supported by payslips, bank statements, and contract details where available.
Will my zero-hour mortgage options improve if I have multiple income sources?
Often, yes. Additional income sources such as a second job, further contracts, or self-employed income can improve affordability, provided the income is sustainable and can be evidenced.
Can zero-hour contract workers remortgage easily?
Yes. If your income has been stable and well documented, remortgaging is often possible. Lender requirements will vary, but many treat remortgage applications similarly to new purchases.
Do lenders prefer weekly or monthly payslips for a zero-hour mortgage application?
Neither is automatically preferred. Lenders focus on consistency of income rather than pay frequency. Applicants paid weekly may simply be asked to provide more payslips.
Can you get a mortgage on a zero-hour contract with poor credit?
It may be possible, but options are typically more limited. Some specialist lenders may consider applications where income is consistent and the overall financial profile meets their criteria.
Does long-term employment with the same employer help?
Yes. A longer employment history with the same employer can increase lender confidence, even if you are on a zero-hour contract, as it may indicate greater income stability.
Ready to Get Started ?
If you're a Zero-Hour Contract Worker and would like to secure a new mortgage, or remortgage an existing property, Bright Money can help you secure the right deal fast.
Call us: 01844 390910
Email us: info@bmimoney.co.uk
Or use the form below and we'll be in touch.
