CIS workers

Working under the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) and looking for a mortgage? Our specialist advisers understand how CIS income works and can help make the process straightforward. We work with lenders across the UK who accept CIS payslips, helping you find the right mortgage for your circumstances.

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CIS WORKER MORTGAGES

Mortgages for CIS workers in Milton Keynes and across the UK with Mortgage Light

A CIS worker is someone who works in construction and gets paid through the Construction Industry Scheme. Instead of getting all your pay at once, the company or contractor you work for takes off some tax first and sends it straight to HMRC. This is usually 20% if you’re registered.



Even though you might work for the same company for a long time, you’re classed as self-employed. That means you still need to keep track of your income and expenses and do a self-assessment tax return each year.


It’s a bit like being halfway between an employee and your own boss - you have the freedom to move between jobs and contractors, but also the responsibility to handle your own tax. This can make things a little different when it comes to getting a mortgage, as not every lender understands how CIS pay works.

The industries we usually see CIS workers in

CIS isn’t just for builders - it covers all sorts of jobs in the construction world. We often help CIS workers who are:



  • Building houses or commercial properties
  • Working as electricians or plumbers
  • Doing carpentry or joinery
  • Putting up roofs or scaffolding
  • Painting, decorating, or plastering
  • Laying bricks, tiles, or other specialist work


Some people work with the same contractor for years, others move between jobs and sites more often. However you work, if you’re paid through CIS, your payslips and income look a little different, and that’s where we can help.

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How we can help you as a CIS worker

Getting a mortgage when you’re a CIS worker can feel tricky - but it doesn’t have to be. Many banks and lenders aren’t used to the way CIS pay works, so they might not see your full earning potential. That’s where we come in. We work with CIS-friendly lenders who are happy to use your CIS payslips to work out your income - often by looking at an average of the last 12 weeks. This can mean you’re able to borrow more than if a lender only looked at your tax return.


Lenders have different policies and we will find the best one tailored to obtain your objectives, we may go with a lender that needs to evidence 12 months worth of income and we’ll use 100%, as well as stretches on income.Alternatively if you do not have 12 months worth of history, we can approach other lenders who assess income in a variety of ways - this could be an average of 12 weeks wage slips x 46 or if you have two years history an average of 13 weeks x 4.


Lenders are like cars they all drive but have different specs,we are just finding the best specification for you.


From start to finish, we make the process as smooth as possible. We’ll explain what paperwork you need, speak to the lender on your behalf, and keep things moving so you can focus on your work. Whether you’re buying your first home, moving house, or remortgaging, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

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Solutions – self-assessment or payslips

When it comes to getting a mortgage as a CIS worker, there are two main ways lenders can assess your income - and choosing the right one can make a big difference.

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Assessment

This is based on the figures you submit to HMRC each year. The lender will usually look at your net profit after expenses. While this works well for some, it can reduce your borrowing potential if you claim a lot of expenses.

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CIS payslips

Many CIS-friendly lenders will look at your gross income from your CIS payslips instead. They’ll usually take the last 12 weeks of payslips, add them up, and work out your average monthly or annual income from that figure.

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Frequently asked questions

Got a question? It might be answered here. You can also head over to our FAQ page to read more of our frequently asked questions.

  • Can I get a mortgage if I’m paid through CIS?

    Yes. Many lenders accept CIS income and will assess your earnings based on payslips or tax returns.

  • How is my income calculated as a CIS worker?

    Your income is usually worked out from your gross CIS vouchers or an average of recent payslips, which can often be more favourable than using net profit alone.

  • Do I need to have worked under CIS for a long time?

    Not always. Some lenders will consider applications if you’ve been on CIS for as little as 3-6 months, provided you have a steady work history.

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Frequently asked questions

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HOMEOWNERSHIP FOR EVERYONE.

10 ways first time buyers are getting on the property ladder

As a first-time buyer, there are a number of mortgage products designed to help make homeownership more accessible - particularly if you’re struggling to build up a large deposit. 

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Low deposit mortgages

Where some lenders will accept deposits as low as 5%, depending on your credit profile and income.

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Higher income multiples 

Available to applicants with strong rental histories, a high salary, or professional qualifications, often more accessible when you have a larger deposit

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Cashback mortgages

A fixed sum back upon completion to help with initial costs - normally linked to new build homes.

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Shared ownership

Where you buy a share of a property and pay rent on the remainder – with the option to purchase more shares over time.

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Builder or developer incentives

Often offered on new-builds to reduce your upfront costs - there are often ways to work directly with the developer to tailor the deal and explore additional mortgage options.

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Joint borrower, sole proprietor mortgages

Sometimes called “income booster” - allowing a parent or family member to support your income without being named on the property

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Zero deposit (100%) mortgages

Available in specific circumstances – such as where you've been renting for a period of time and can show a consistent payment record. These are subject to stricter eligibility criteria and affordability checks.

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Our team are here to help.

Working under the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) and looking for a mortgage? Our specialist advisers understand how CIS income works and can help make the process straightforward. We work with lenders across the UK who accept CIS payslips, helping you find the right mortgage for your circumstances.


Using your CIS payslips instead of your tax return can sometimes mean you’re able to borrow significantly more, as it’s based on your income before deductions. We’ll compare both options for you, explain the pros and cons, and choose the route that gives you the best chance of getting the mortgage you want, with the least amount of stress. We’ll also guide you on what documents to gather, how to present your income clearly to lenders, and which banks or building societies are most likely to approve your application.