Housing advice: mortgages

If you are at risk of homelessness or worried about your housing situation, you can email housing@westberks.gov.uk and we will contact you to arrange an appointment.

If you are homeless today, or your enquiry is urgent, you can call 01635 519 530 and choose option 2 to speak to a housing officer. We are available Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 5pm, Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm. 
If you have been made homeless outside of these hours, call the emergency duty team on 01344 351 999.

See our homelessness support page for more information.

You can find advice and guidance on getting a mortgage, buying a home, mortgage problems and struggling to pay your mortgage on the following websites:

• Money Helper - buying a home
• GOV.UK - how to buy a home
• Citizens advice - mortgage problems
• Shelter - mortgage arrears and repossession

If you're struggling to pay your mortgage

If you are struggling to pay your mortgage, you must contact your lender first to find out what your options are.

Do not sell or move out of your home without seeking advice first, as it may affect any decision we make if you need to apply as homeless.

The Housing Options Team can help you with negotiating with your lender and providing assistance if you have to go to court. We can also help you find alternative accommodation if you have to leave your home. Contact us at housing@westberks.gov.uk and we will contact you to arrange an appointment.
 

Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI)

The government's Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) scheme could help towards interest payments on your mortgage or loans you have taken out for certain repairs or improvements to your home, if you meet the qualifying criteria.

This is paid as a loan which you will need to repay when you sell the property. You can find out more about the SMI Scheme on the GOV.UK website.