Can I Get Equity Release on Any Property?

Equity release can be a way to access some of the value tied up in your home without having to move out straight away. But one of the most common questions is whether you can get equity release on any property.

In practice, the answer is usually no. Equity release providers apply property-specific criteria, and eligibility can depend on factors such as the type of property, its condition, how it’s used, and—where relevant—the terms of the lease.

This guide explains the main property considerations that can affect whether equity release is possible.

What properties are typically eligible for equity release?

While each equity release provider has its own rules, most will look for properties that are likely to be saleable in the future and that offer a level of structural stability.

In general, properties that are commonly accepted include:

• Detached houses
• Semi-detached houses
• Bungalows
• Terraced houses
• Purpose-built flats in low-rise buildings
• Modern leasehold flats with long leases

Providers will also consider:

• Ownership: you generally need to be the beneficial owner of the property.
• Joint ownership: if more than one person owns the property, the application typically needs to reflect the ownership structure.

It’s also worth noting that “standard” residential properties tend to be easier to assess than unusual or complex assets.

Common property-related barriers to equity release

Equity release is designed to be repaid when the property is no longer occupied (for example, after death or when moving into qualifying long-term care). Because of this, providers focus heavily on whether the property is likely to retain value and be marketable.

The following issues can affect eligibility:

Property condition and age

Providers will usually want the property to be in a reasonable state of repair.

Serious structural or maintenance concerns—such as significant damp, roof damage, or subsidence—can raise questions about long-term value and saleability.

Age alone doesn’t automatically make a property ineligible, but older homes may be assessed more carefully, especially where there are concerns about condition, construction type, or remaining structural life.

Unusual or non-standard property types

Some property categories can be harder to sell or may create additional legal or practical complications. As a result, they may be declined by some providers. Examples can include:

• Guest houses
• Properties used for short-term letting
• Farms and agricultural land
• Houseboats
• Certain specialist retirement properties
• Some studio flats (particularly where size or layout makes them harder to value and sell)

Unusual features and construction elements

Certain features don’t always rule a property out, but they can complicate assessment—especially where they affect valuation, maintenance, or future marketability.

Examples that may be considered include:

• Properties with cladding or external wall systems that require specialist assessment
• Timber-framed or steel-framed construction (may require additional scrutiny)
• Flat or thatched roofs (can affect maintenance and valuation)
• Homes in areas with higher flood risk or known subsidence concerns
• Properties with shared access arrangements or complex rights
• Some types of insulation or roof coverings (where they affect survey outcomes)

Listed buildings

If the property is listed, there may be additional restrictions around alterations and maintenance. That can affect how the property is valued and how easily it could be sold in the future.

Can you get equity release on leasehold property?

It is often possible to get equity release on a leasehold property, including flats. However, leasehold adds extra considerations because the value of the property is influenced by the lease terms.

Providers commonly look at:

• Remaining lease length: longer leases are generally preferred.
• Ground rent and service charges: these can affect affordability and long-term costs.
• Lease clauses: any terms that could reduce value or create restrictions may be taken into account.

Leasehold cases can be more document-heavy, and providers may require additional information about the property and the building’s management.

Can you get equity release on leasehold flats?

Leasehold flats are not automatically excluded, but they can be subject to closer scrutiny than houses.

Providers may consider factors such as:

• How the building is managed and maintained
• Whether there are known disputes involving the freeholder or management company
• The overall condition of the building (not just the individual flat)
• Whether the lease structure supports future saleability

In many cases, a well-maintained flat within a properly managed development with a strong lease structure is more likely to be viewed favourably.

Can you get equity release on buy-to-let properties?

Equity release is most commonly associated with a person’s main residence. However, there may be specialist options available for landlords.

That said, not all providers offer equity release for buy-to-let, and the criteria can be more complex than for owner-occupied homes.

Where buy-to-let equity release is available, providers may look at whether the property:

• Is mortgage-free or has a low outstanding balance
• Produces rental income
• Is let under a standard assured shorthold tenancy (or an arrangement the provider accepts)
• Is in good repair

Because buy-to-let cases can be more variable, the amount that can be released may be lower than for a main residence, and the overall cost of borrowing can differ.

What to consider before assuming your property will qualify

Even if your property type is commonly accepted, eligibility can still vary depending on details. Before exploring equity release further, it can help to gather information such as:

• Any recent survey or maintenance records
• The property’s construction type and any known issues
• For leasehold: lease length, ground rent, and service charge details
• For flats: building management information and whether there are any ongoing disputes
• For buy-to-let: tenancy details and evidence of rental income

Providers will ultimately assess your property based on their own criteria, but having the right information available can make the process smoother.

Summary: is equity release available on any property?

Equity release is not available on every property. Eligibility typically depends on:

• Property type and construction
• Condition and structural concerns
• Saleability factors
• Lease terms for leasehold properties
• The specific arrangement for buy-to-let properties

If you’re unsure whether your home fits a provider’s criteria, the most reliable approach is to consider the property details that providers focus on—especially condition, lease length (where relevant), and any features that could affect future value.

If you’d like help understanding your options, speak to our brokers for guidance on the information providers typically need and how your property may be assessed.