Meeting the Needs of a Changing Workforce
Kensington Mortgages has recently announced important updates to its lending criteria, specifically designed to accommodate the diverse ways people earn income in the UK today. Their new Flexible Income Solutions are tailored for freelancers, contractors, portfolio earners, and others with unconventional income streams. If you have ever faced challenges securing a mortgage due to non-standard employment or income, Kensington’s approach might open the door to your next property move.
Kensington’s New Flexible Income Lending Criteria Explained
Kensington Mortgages understands that the traditional nine-to-five is no longer the only path to homeownership. Their updated criteria benefit a broader range of applicants, including:
- Recently employed borrowers: Applicants with just one month in a new job—provided it is within the same industry—can apply with only their first payslip as proof.
- Applicants with multiple jobs: Those holding a second job, as long as both roles have been held for a minimum of six months, are now considered.
- Self-employed: Only one year of accounting history is required (far less than the industry standard, which is often two to three years).
- Contractors and CIS workers: Eligibility is based on a minimum of 12 months’ history, using the standard self-employed income verification process for assessment.
This flexible approach means fewer roadblocks for UK mortgage applicants whose income patterns don’t fit the high street norm.
Who Benefits Most From These Changes?
- First-time buyers who have changed jobs recently but remain in the same industry.
- Freelancers, gig workers, and contractors with at least 12 months’ work record.
- Self-employed applicants who can only provide a single year’s set of accounts.
- Side-hustlers or those supplementing their income with a second job for over six months.
This widening of criteria may particularly help younger professionals and property investors building up multiple income streams.
Fast, Transparent Decision Times
Kensington Mortgages is also committed to speed and service clarity, promising the following average times (as of mid-September 2025):
- Review of new applications: 4 days
- Document review after upload: 1 day
- Application to formal mortgage offer: 13 working days on average
They also pledge to notify applicants at least 48 hours before any standard rate changes—an important feature for those worried about volatility in the market.
Why Choose Kensington Mortgages?
- Flexible, practical lending criteria for non-standard incomes
- Fast application processing and dedicated sales support
- Transparency around service times and changes to rates
- Strong customer reputation, as evidenced by high Trustpilot scores
Kensington’s focus on real, modern income situations—combined with competitive service performance—makes them a naturally strong contender for borrowers whose needs aren’t always met on the high street.
Is Kensington Right for You?
If you have struggled to get a mortgage due to a short employment record, self-employment status, or complex income streams, Kensington Mortgages’ latest criteria update could be the break you need. Their willingness to assess a broader range of incomes helps more people access the housing ladder.
Contact our team today for tailored mortgage advice and to check your eligibility for these new flexible products. We’ll help you compare options and make your next move with confidence.
FAQ: Kensington Mortgages Flexible Income Solutions
- Who qualifies for the new flexible income criteria?
Applicants who are recently employed within the same industry (1 month), those with second jobs (minimum 6 months), self-employed with 1 year of accounts, and contractors/CIS workers with at least 12 months’ history. - How do these criteria affect my ability to borrow?
By lowering the income history requirements, more borrowers can qualify—even with shorter or non-traditional income records. - Is Kensington suitable for contractors and self-employed borrowers?
Yes, Kensington’s criteria specifically welcome these groups, needing only 12 months’ history for assessment. - What documents will I need to apply?
Proof of income (e.g., payslips, accounts, contracts), depending on employment type. Minimum requirements have been reduced versus other lenders. - How do I check if I qualify?
Contact our mortgage advisers for a personalised assessment based on your income and circumstances. We’ll guide you through the process and eligibility checks.
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