Dodgy spray foam insulation cases ‘skyrocketing’, warns Nationwide

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The lender says homeowners are more susceptible to rogue installers as they look to save money by making homes warmer.

Nationwide has warned that cases of homeowners with problems caused by spray foam insulation are skyrocketing.

The lender says people are more vulnerable to rogue installers as the seek to make their homes more energy efficient and save money.

Spray foam polyurethane (PU) is blamed for around 250,000 homes being ineligible for mortgages as lenders fear the long-term effects.

rob stevensRob Stevens, head of property risk at Nationwide, told the BBC’s Moneybox programme: “We are starting to see skyrocketing enquiries about this. This is a time when people are vulnerable and susceptible to taking out these products.

“We want to make sure people know the right way to do it, and are able to insulate their houses in a safe way which saves them money.”

Many experts believe the spray polyurethane (PU) causes damp issues within roofs, and surveyors often recommend it is removed before a house purchase is agreed. This has resulted in a tightening of lending criteria and prevented many homeowners being unable to sell their property.

 

Independent surveyors trade body RPSA (Residential Property Surveyors Association) performed a U-turn on its guidance for spray foam installation last month.

The RPSA retracted the guidance it published in December last year, which said that if no detailed technical information is available, then surveyors should recommend the foam is removed and the roof replaced.

A group of stakeholders supported by the Insulation Manufacturers Association (IMA), which includes spray foam manufacturers and installers, surveyors, valuers and lenders, is collaborating to standardise installation procedures and develop inspection protocols.

RICS advises that homeowners should appoint a qualified surveyor to properly inspect their property. The surveyor can also carry out post-installation inspections.

You can listen to the Moneybox programme here