Getting a mortgage on a flexible income doesn’t have to be impossible. While some lenders can be cautious, zero hours contract mortgages are very much achievable with the right advice and lender selection. The key is understanding how your income is assessed and presenting your application correctly from the outset.
At Empire Mortgages, we specialise in helping people on flexible and non-traditional contracts secure mortgages that reflect their true earning potential. With whole-of-market access and specialist knowledge, we help zero hours workers move forward with confidence.
Zero hours contract mortgages are designed for applicants whose working hours are not guaranteed. This includes people who may work varying hours each week or month but still earn a consistent income over time.
Unlike standard employed mortgages, which rely heavily on fixed salaries, zero hours contract mortgages focus on income history, consistency, and sustainability. Many lenders will look beyond the contract wording and assess how reliably you earn over a longer period.
Empire Mortgages works with lenders who understand flexible employment and assess applications fairly.
Yes, it is possible to get a mortgage on a zero hours contract. While not every lender will accept this type of income, many do, provided the application is structured correctly.
Lenders are generally more interested in how long you have been working, whether your income is consistent, and whether your work is ongoing. The right advice can make a significant difference to both acceptance and borrowing potential.
When assessing zero hours contract mortgages, lenders typically review recent payslips, P60s, and bank statements to build a picture of your average income. Some lenders will assess income based on an average over the past 6 to 12 months, while others may look at longer employment history within the same industry.
Consistency is often more important than contract type. Regular work, steady earnings, and evidence of continued employment can all strengthen an application. Short gaps in work are often acceptable, particularly if you have a strong track record in your role or sector.
Borrowing amounts for zero hours contract mortgages depend on your average income, deposit size, credit profile, and existing financial commitments. In many cases, borrowing can be similar to that of permanently employed applicants if income is stable.
Deposits often start from around five to ten percent for residential mortgages, although this can vary by lender and individual circumstances. Empire Mortgages will calculate your borrowing potential accurately before you apply, helping you understand what is realistic and affordable.
Zero hours contract mortgages are commonly used by people working in healthcare, care services, hospitality, retail, education, logistics, and other flexible or shift-based roles. They are also suitable for people with multiple employers or those combining zero hours work with other income streams.
If you have a consistent earnings history and can demonstrate ongoing work, a zero hours contract does not automatically prevent you from getting a mortgage.
Many high-street lenders apply strict criteria that don’t suit flexible workers. Applying without specialist advice can lead to unnecessary rejections, which may affect your credit profile.
Using a broker experienced in zero hours contract mortgages ensures your income is assessed correctly and placed with lenders who are comfortable with your employment type. This improves approval chances and often results in more competitive mortgage options.
Based in Dunfermline, Empire Mortgages provides mortgage advice to zero hours workers across Fife and the surrounding areas, including Kirkcaldy, Glenrothes, Cupar, St Andrews, Leven, and beyond.
Our local knowledge, combined with access to national lenders, allows us to offer advice that is both practical and relevant to the local housing market.
If you’re working on a flexible contract and worried about getting approved, Empire Mortgages is here to help. We provide expert advice on zero hours contract mortgages, helping you secure the right deal with confidence.
Book your free mortgage consultation with Empire Mortgages today.
Yes, many lenders offer zero hours contract mortgages, provided you can show consistent income and ongoing employment.
Most lenders prefer at least 6 to 12 months of income history, although this can vary depending on your role and industry.
There is no fixed minimum income, but lenders will assess affordability based on your average earnings and financial commitments.
Yes, first-time buyers on zero hours contracts can be accepted, provided lender criteria and affordability requirements are met.
Not necessarily. Rates can be competitive when the application is placed with the right lender.
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The guidance provided within this website is subject to the UK regulatory regime and is therefore primarily targeted at consumers based in the UK.
Empire Mortgages Ltd is an Appointed Representative of PRIMIS Mortgage Network, a trading name of TenetLime Ltd. TenetLime Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Tenet Lime Ltd is entered on the Financial Services Register (www.fca.org.uk/register) under reference 150643.
Empire Mortgages Ltd may charge a fee for mortgage advice. The amount of the fee will depend on your circumstances and will be discussed and agreed with you at the earliest opportunity. Our typical fee is £295 payable on receipt of a full mortgage offer.
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