How much can I borrow on a zero-hour contract?

Lenders will typically offer 4–4.5× your average annual income calculated from your payslips. If you earn an average of £1,800/month, that's an annual income of £21,600 and borrowing of around £86,400–£97,200.

Do I need a larger deposit?

Not necessarily. Some lenders offer 90–95% LTV mortgages to zero-hour workers with a strong earnings history. However, a larger deposit (10–15%) will give you more lender options.

Can I get a joint mortgage with a partner on a zero-hour contract?

Yes. If your partner has a permanent contract, this strengthens the application significantly. Both incomes will be considered together.

Zero-Hour Contract Mortgages

Zero-hour contracts don't have to mean zero mortgage options. We work with lenders who assess your actual earnings history, not just your contract type.

Can You Get a Mortgage on a Zero-Hour Contract?

Yes, you can get a mortgage on a zero-hour contract — but not all lenders will consider you. High-street banks often decline zero-hour workers because they can't guarantee future earnings. However, specialist lenders will look at your actual income track record, typically over 6–12 months, and lend based on your average earnings. Our affordability guide explains how lenders calculate what you can borrow. If you also work through an agency, see our temporary worker mortgages page. You might also benefit from improving your credit score before applying.

Specialist lenders who accept zero-hour contracts
Income assessed on actual earnings, not contract hours
6–12 months' work history typically sufficient
100% fee-free mortgage advice
Both employed and agency zero-hour workers considered

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Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

How Lenders Assess Zero-Hour Income

Specialist lenders will calculate your average income over 6–12 months using payslips and bank statements. They look at consistency of work, average weekly/monthly hours, and whether you've been with the same employer. The more stable your earnings history, the better your chances.

What You'll Need to Apply

You'll need 6–12 months of consecutive payslips, 3–6 months of bank statements showing regular income, and ideally a letter from your employer confirming your average hours and ongoing employment. Some lenders may also want to see a P60 if you've been working for a full tax year.

Improving Your Chances

To strengthen your application, aim to have at least 12 months' continuous employment history, avoid gaps between contracts, keep all payslips and bank statements organised, and if possible, demonstrate that your hours have been increasing over time.