Equity Release on Thatched and Listed Properties

Lifetime mortgages can sometimes be available on thatched or listed homes, but lender appetite varies and these cases often need more detailed property assessment.

What lenders may consider

The valuer and lender may look at the type and condition of the thatch, listing grade, construction method, maintenance history, insurability, location and likely future marketability. A listed building can also contain construction methods that fall outside a lender’s standard policy.

Older construction

Period cottages may combine timber framing, lath and plaster, render, brick bases and later extensions. It is important to describe the construction accurately rather than simply calling the property standard construction.

Why a pre-application check can help

Where a property is clearly unusual, discussing it with potential lenders before submitting a full application may reduce the risk of applying to a lender whose policy is unlikely to fit.

Case experience: Quest Finance has investigated later-life lending on Grade II listed, thatched and timber/lath-and-plaster properties. Each new property is assessed on its own merits and remains subject to lender valuation.

See our guide to unusual properties and equity release.

Reviewed by David Farrell. Last reviewed: 3rd October 2026.