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 zero-hour contract workers, though criteria vary widely. Bright Money Independent works with lenders who accept flexible and irregular income, provided you can evidence consistency over time.
How much income history do I need for a zero-hour contract mortgage?
Most lenders want 12 months’ history, though some will consider 6 months if the work pattern is stable. A few specialist lenders may also average your income over the last 12–24 months.
Do all lenders accept zero-hour contract income?
No. High-street lenders can be cautious. However, several mainstream and specialist lenders do accept it. At Bright Money Independent we match you with lenders who understand flexible working patterns.
What documents will I need?
You will typically need:
Last 3–12 months’ payslips
A P60
Bank statements (usually 3 months)
Your employment contract
If paid weekly, some lenders may ask for more payslips
Will lenders accept multiple zero-hour contracts?
Yes, and it can actually strengthen your application if the income from each role is consistent. Lenders like to see reliability across multiple employers.
How do lenders assess affordability for zero-hour contract workers?
They usually take an average of your income across a defined period. Some use the lowest monthly figure, while others use a longer average for fairness. Bright Money Independent helps present your income in the most favourable way.
Will I need a larger deposit?
Not always. Some lenders are comfortable with 5–10% deposits, but others may ask for 15%+ depending on the stability of your income. Using a broker ensures you choose the right lender for your situation.
Are interest rates higher for zero-hour contract mortgages?
Rates can sometimes be slightly higher if the lender views your income as higher risk. However, many applicants secure competitive deals similar to standard full-time workers, especially with strong documentation.
Can I get a mortgage if I only started a zero-hour job recently?
It’s more difficult. Lenders generally prefer at least 6–12 months of history. However, exceptions exist if you have a long track record in the same industry.
Does overtime count towards my mortgage affordability?
Yes—overtime, bonuses, and variable pay can all be included if they are regular and evidenced. Lenders typically average these over several months or an entire year.
Can agency workers on zero-hour contracts get a mortgage?
Yes. Agency income is accepted by several lenders, provided the work pattern is consistent. Bright Money Independent regularly works with agency staff.
Will my mortgage options improve if I have multiple income sources?
Absolutely. Second jobs, additional contracts, or self-employed income can strengthen your application and improve affordability.
Can zero-hour contract workers remortgage easily?
Yes. Provided your income has been stable and well-documented, refinancing is usually straightforward. A broker can help package your case correctly.
Do lenders prefer weekly or monthly payslips?
Neither is better—what matters is consistency. If you’re paid weekly, lenders may simply ask for more payslips for verification.
Should I use a mortgage broker for a zero-hour contract application?
Yes. Zero-hour cases often require tailored lender selection and careful presentation of income. Bright Money Independent specialises in these scenarios and can source lenders who take a flexible, understanding approach.
Can I still get a mortgage with poor credit and a zero-hour contract?
Yes, but your options will be more limited. Specialist lenders may still help if income is consistent. A broker is essential in these cases.
Does it help if I’ve worked for the same employer for a long time?
Definitely. A long employment history—regardless of contract type—increases lender confidence.
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.
