Homes are still unable to sell because of rogue spray foam firms

Dodgy spray foam installers continue to target vulnerable homeowners, leaving their homes unsellable.

The Daily Telegraph reports that door-to-door salesmen are targeting pensioners with 'today only' deals on cheap insulation.

While a new code of practice has been published, some companies charge thousands for spray foam installation and fail to use it properly, resulting in damp roofs.

EXAMPLE

Just last week our surveying team picked up this example in Warwickshire. This really does highlight the importance of a survey on a property. Spray foam insulation was found within the roof space which is not acceptable to most high street lenders and they may not be willing to lend. This can also cause damage to the roof frame/timbers.

Without the homebuyer report or property survey being carried out, the client would not have know that the spray foam insulation was present. This may affect on future saleability and value of the property.

BEWARE

In many cases, surveyors recommend removing it before selling a property, and buyers are unable to secure a mortgage without it.

Last year, Nationwide warned that the number of homeowners with problems caused by such insulation was on the rise. Around 250,000 homes were ineligible for mortgages as a result.

As people seek to save money and make their homes more energy-efficient, they are more vulnerable to rogue installers.

CODE OF PRACTICE

A code of practice on spray foam installation was published in May by the Insulation Manufacturers Association (IMA), which includes makers and installers, surveyors, valuers, and lenders.

In its guidance for spray foam installation, the RPSA (Residential Property Surveyors Association) performed a U-turn last year.

Surveyors should recommend the foam be removed and the roof replaced if no detailed technical information is available, according to the RPSA.