Firefighter Mortgage Specialist

Mortgages for Firefighters

Fire service pay includes shift allowances, overtime, and retained income that many lenders overlook. We find lenders who count your full firefighter income, whether you are wholetime, retained, or both.

Retained income acceptedShift pay includedSecond job incomeNo upfront fees
Prefer to call? 0844 884 9748 (Mon-Sat 9am-7pm)
Step 1 of 3Type Selection

What type of mortgage do you need?

Select the option that best describes your property financing requirement. Our brokers specialise in complex London and international structures.

Roger Cooper

"Our goal is to understand your unique situation. Select a category and we'll match you with the right product and lender."

— Roger Cooper, Senior Mortgage Adviser

Why firefighters need specialist mortgage advice

Fire service pay is more complex than a standard salary. The right broker ensures every element of your income is counted.

Retained firefighter income

Retained (on-call) firefighters earn variable income based on callouts and drills. We find lenders who accept retained income based on a 12-month average rather than dismissing it as irregular.

Shift allowances recognised

Fire service shift patterns generate allowances that form a regular part of your income. We work with lenders who include shift enhancements when calculating your borrowing capacity.

Overtime included

Regular overtime is common in the fire service, particularly during busy periods. We identify lenders who will count overtime income if you can evidence a consistent pattern over 6-12 months.

Fire service pension understood

Firefighter pension contributions are among the highest in the public sector. We find lenders who assess your income fairly and do not penalise you for strong pension provision.

Housing near stations

Some firefighters need to live within a certain distance of their station. We understand this constraint and help you find the right mortgage for properties in your required area.

Second job income

Many firefighters work second jobs during their days off. We find lenders who will include secondary employment income alongside your fire service salary to increase your borrowing.

How it works

From first enquiry to mortgage offer, we handle everything. Most firefighter applications complete within 4-6 weeks.

01

Tell us about your fire service role and income

We review your full income picture including base salary, shift allowances, overtime, retained income, and any second job earnings. This takes one phone call or online enquiry.

02

We search 90+ lenders for the right deal

We identify lenders who fully recognise fire service pay structures and find the most competitive rates for your circumstances. Firefighters often qualify for more than they expect with the right lender.

03

We present your options clearly

We explain the best 3-5 mortgage options in plain English — rate, monthly payment, total cost. We make a clear recommendation based on your situation and priorities.

04

We handle the full application

From submission to mortgage offer, we manage the entire process. We liaise with the lender, chase valuations, and keep you updated at every stage. Most firefighter applications complete within 4-6 weeks.

Firefighter mortgage FAQs

Can I get a mortgage as a retained firefighter?
Yes. Retained firefighter income is variable, but lenders who understand this will assess your income based on a 12-month average of your retaining fee, callout payments, and drill fees. If you also have a primary job, we find lenders who will combine both incomes. We know which lenders accept retained firefighter income and how to evidence it effectively.
Do lenders accept fire service overtime?
Some do. Many high street lenders only count basic salary, but several will include regular overtime if you can demonstrate a consistent pattern over 6-12 months through payslips. As a specialist broker, we know exactly which lenders include fire service overtime and how to present it in your application.
How does the firefighter pension affect my mortgage?
Firefighter pension contributions are typically 11-14.5% of salary, which is higher than most occupations. This reduces your take-home pay and can affect affordability calculations. However, some lenders assess affordability on gross income before pension deductions. We select lenders whose approach maximises your borrowing capacity.
I have a second job alongside the fire service — will both incomes count?
Many lenders will consider secondary employment income if you can evidence it through payslips or a tax return. The fire service shift pattern often allows for regular secondary employment, and we find lenders comfortable with dual-income applications from firefighters.
Are there special mortgage schemes for firefighters?
While there is no government mortgage scheme exclusively for firefighters, several lenders offer preferential terms for emergency service workers. Some also have more flexible criteria for public sector employees with secure employment. We identify any schemes or lender preferences that benefit firefighter applications.
I am a new recruit in training — can I get a mortgage?
Yes, though it depends on your stage of training. Once you have a confirmed employment contract with a fire and rescue service, most lenders will proceed with your application. Your confirmed salary and the job security of the fire service work in your favour. We advise on the best timing and lender selection for trainee firefighters.

Related services

First Time Buyer Mortgages →

Buying your first home as a firefighter — we guide you through the whole process.

Remortgage →

Already have a mortgage? We find competitive remortgage deals that recognise your fire service income.

Police Officer Mortgages →

Specialist mortgage advice for police officers with similar emergency service considerations.

Mortgage Protection →

Life cover, critical illness, and income protection arranged alongside your mortgage.

Ready to find your firefighter mortgage?

Get your free consultation today. We understand fire service pay structures and find lenders who count your full income.

Get a Free Initial QuoteCall 0844 884 9748

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

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