Fall in Mortgage Possessions Reflects Responsible Lending and Effective Borrower Support – United Trust Bank

13 August 2026

New figures from UK Finance showing a further fall in mortgage possessions demonstrate the effectiveness of responsible lending and the support being provided to borrowers experiencing financial difficulties, according to United Trust Bank (UTB).

The latest data shows that 1,150 homeowner properties were taken into possession in Q2 2026, 8% fewer than in the previous quarter and 14% lower than a year earlier, with possessions remaining significantly below the long-term average.

Buster Tolfree, Managing Director of Mortgages, BTL & Bridging at United Trust Bank, commented:

"These are really encouraging figures. An 8% quarterly and 14% annual fall in homeowner possessions demonstrates the quality of lending decisions being made across the industry, particularly when it comes to sustainable affordability and responsible lending.

"It also reflects the considerable work lenders do to support customers who find themselves in financial difficulty. Repossession is always a last resort and lenders now have broad and sophisticated support toolkits to help borrowers through challenging periods and, wherever possible, achieve better outcomes.

"With possessions remaining significantly below the long-term average, these figures should give consumers confidence that the regulatory framework is working and that lenders are taking their responsibilities seriously. Of course, there will always be customers who experience financial difficulties, and anyone concerned about meeting their mortgage payments should speak to their lender as early as possible. The earlier that conversation starts, the more options there are likely to be."