Why CIS workers get the wrong answer
Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) subcontractors have tax deducted at source and often have accounts showing low net profit after expenses. Many lenders use that net figure — understating your income. The best CIS mortgage comes from a lender that assesses your gross CIS income from payment and deduction statements, often substantially increasing borrowing.
1. Mortgages assessing gross CIS income
Specialist lenders treat CIS subcontractors like employed applicants, using gross income from CIS statements rather than net accounts. Best for CIS workers wanting to borrow on their real earnings — usually far more than the accounts route.
2. CIS mortgages with a short track record
Some lenders accept as little as 6–12 months of CIS statements. Best for those newer to CIS or recently subcontracting after employment in the trade.
3. CIS mortgages using accounts (the alternative)
If you have strong net profits, the standard self-employed route may still work. Best where your accounts genuinely show high profit — but for most CIS workers, gross assessment wins.
4. Larger-deposit and bad-credit CIS options
If you have credit issues, specialist lenders combine CIS gross assessment with adverse-credit acceptance. Best for CIS workers with a less-than-perfect file.
What helps CIS workers borrow more
- Choose a lender that assesses gross CIS income, not net profit
- Keep your CIS payment and deduction statements organised
- Show a consistent work pattern
- Keep a clean credit file for the best rates
How to find the best CIS mortgage
Only some lenders assess CIS income on a gross basis, so a specialist broker can transform what you're offered. Find a mortgage broker through Nesto — free, no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
How is CIS income assessed for a mortgage?
The best lenders use your gross CIS income from payment and deduction statements, treating you like an employed applicant — usually more generous than net accounts.
Do I need accounts as a CIS worker?
Not always — lenders that assess gross CIS income rely on your CIS statements rather than full accounts.
How long do I need to have been CIS?
Some lenders accept 6–12 months of CIS statements, especially with relevant prior experience in the trade.
Why am I offered more with one lender than another?
Because some use gross CIS income while others use net profit after expenses. The gross approach usually means much higher borrowing.
Can I get a CIS mortgage with bad credit?
Yes — specialist lenders combine gross CIS assessment with adverse-credit acceptance, at higher rates.