Key Takeaways
- Laing Easiform houses are concrete-built, non-traditional homes mainly constructed in the UK from the 1920s to the 1970s, prized for their affordability but presenting unique mortgage challenges.
- Securing a mortgage on a Laing Easiform property can be more complicated than with brick-built homes, especially for pre-1945 types, due to lender restrictions and stricter requirements.
- Most postwar Easiform homes remain mortgageable as they are not classified as defective, but buyers should expect fewer lender options, higher deposits, and the need for detailed structural surveys.
- Common issues with Laing Easiform houses include potential asbestos, reinforcement corrosion, and poor insulation, all of which can impact mortgage approval and ongoing maintenance costs.
- Identifying a Laing Easiform house involves checking for specific construction features such as concrete cavity walls, steel ties, and characteristic external finishes; professional surveys are recommended before purchase.
- Consulting a mortgage broker with experience in non-standard properties and commissioning a full building survey are vital steps to securing finance and protecting your investment in a Laing Easiform home.
Thinking about buying or remortgaging a Laing Easiform house? You’re not alone. These concrete-built homes, constructed mainly from the 1920s to the 1960s, are dotted across the UK and still attract plenty of interest thanks to their affordability and unique character.
Getting a mortgage on a Laing Easiform property isn’t always straightforward though. Some lenders hesitate due to their non-traditional construction and stricter criteria often apply, especially for homes built before 1945. While post-war Easiforms usually meet lender requirements, you might find fewer mortgage options and less favourable terms compared to standard brick-built homes.
Despite these challenges, Laing Easiform houses weren’t listed as defective under the Housing Defects Act, so many are still mortgageable. Understanding your options can help you secure the right deal and avoid common pitfalls when financing one of these distinctive properties.
What is Laing Easiform housing?
Laing Easiform housing refers to concrete-built homes developed by John Laing & Son Ltd from 1919 across the UK. You see these houses mostly in areas that experienced major postwar development, as local authorities and the Ministry of Defence adopted the system to quickly address housing shortages.
You find two main construction types of Laing Easiform housing. The first type, built up to around 1925, consists of solid concrete walls, sometimes referred to as MK1, and used ‘nofines’ concrete. Fewer than 2,000 examples of type 1 remain, making them uncommon. The second type, constructed from the late 1920s onwards as MK2 and MK3 variants, uses cavity-wall construction with reinforced steel bars, usually with pebble-dash finishes or gravel aggregate for weather resistance. This later method allowed for modifications, including bay windows and maisonette layouts.
Laing Easiform homes are a prime example of non-traditional construction, meaning they were not built with standard brick and mortar. Over 25 housing styles, including houses, apartments and maisonettes, came from the Easiform system. The core material is poured, cast-in-situ concrete, differing from the precast panel approach of other non-standard homes.
Tens of thousands of these properties exist across the UK, with most built between the 1920s and 1970s. Many still provide long-term, safe accommodation. If you assess a property’s construction, you might spot thick external concrete walls, distinctive window reinforcements or original aggregate wall coatings that signal a Laing Easiform origin.
When were Laing Easiform houses built?
Laing Easiform houses were constructed across the UK from 1919 through the 1970s. You can find the earliest examples dating to the immediate post-World War I period, with significant building phases following both world wars. Local Authorities and the Ministry of Defence commissioned thousands of these homes to address the acute housing shortage.
Three primary Laing Easiform construction phases created distinctive property versions. MK1 houses, introduced between 1919 and 1928, are rare, with roughly 2,000 built, and feature solid 8-inch “Nofines” concrete walls. MK2 homes appeared from 1928 to 1945, incorporating a 3-inch cavity and pebbledash finishes. MK3 properties, the most common, were developed from 1945 into the 1970s, with reinforced concrete and improved customisation options.
The wide timespan and adaptability of Laing Easiform construction resulted in over 25 housing styles, including houses, apartments, and maisonettes. Most properties standing today were built between the 1920s and late 1960s, reflecting local authority housebuilding programmes of those decades. You still see Laing Easiform houses concentrated in areas that underwent rapid expansion postwar, especially where councils prioritised efficient, cost-effective construction on a large scale.
How is Laing Easiform constructed?
Laing Easiform construction uses cast-in-situ concrete poured directly onsite into steel moulds that shape cavity walls. You see inner and outer wall layers separated by a cavity, which provides insulation and protects against moisture. Steel wall ties connect the two concrete skins, adding stability to the structure.
Earlier MK1 homes feature 8-inch thick solid concrete walls made using no fines concrete, which omits sand for a coarser texture. Only about 2,000 MK1 homes exist, making these early examples rare in the UK.
From 1928, MK2 homes introduce a 3-inch cavity between wall layers, with external surfaces often finished in pebbledash or gravel aggregate for weather protection. Reinforcements become standard above and below window openings.
MK3, the most prevalent type built after 1945, adapts to various layouts and includes steel reinforcement rods and increased design options such as bay windows or porches. This method creates uniform quality, speed, and flexibility across more than 25 Laing Easiform housing types, including apartments and maisonettes.
Builders adopted Easiform techniques to address skilled bricklayer shortages and accelerate construction during housing booms. Between 1919 and the early 1970s, you’ll find over 90,000 Laing Easiform properties across the UK using this efficient build method.
Are Laing Easiform houses constructed well?
Laing Easiform houses generally show strength and durability when compared to other non-standard constructions. Most postwar Laing Easiform homes feature reinforced concrete cavity walls, with typical external and internal skins each measuring 3½ inches thick and separated by a 2-inch cavity. These construction features contribute to their resilience and have supported their continued mortgageability by major lenders, since they’ve not been declared defective under the Housing Defects Act.
Common issues in Laing Easiform construction arise as properties age. Corrosion can develop in the steel reinforcements binding the interior and exterior walls, which sometimes leads to cracking. Inspections often detect this in properties over 50 years old, but repairs remain possible unless corrosion is extensive. Asbestos appears in soffits, PVC understair cupboards and loft hatches in many homes built before the late 1970s, though regulations manage its presence if you plan refurbishment.
Thermal performance is often poorer than that of traditional brick-built houses, due to original lack of insulation in the cavity walls. Higher heating bills are frequent in uninsulated examples, but modern cavity wall insulation upgrades can reduce this disadvantage. Early pre-1940s Laing Easiform properties, with thinner wall sections—such as those found in Lockleaze, Bristol—rarely meet current lending standards due to their reduced structural thickness.
Structural longevity for postwar variants can match brick-built homes when regular inspections and prompt repairs are maintained. You find Laing Easiform houses regularly eligible for conventional mortgages based on their generally strong construction and adaptation options.
What problems can occur with Laing Easiform houses?
Several issues can affect Laing Easiform houses, especially as the structures age and building techniques show limitations.
- Asbestos presence
Many Laing Easiform houses contain asbestos materials. For example, soffits, loft hatches, and understair cupboards in properties built before the 1980s commonly include asbestos cement boarding. All asbestos must be managed and removed following Health and Safety Executive guidelines.
- Corrosion of reinforcement
Corrosion of the embedded metal support bars is known to occur, particularly in older variants. This problem can cause external wall cracking. Any houses built post-1946 usually exhibit only minor cracking, but regular surveys remain essential.
- Thermal insulation limitations
Laing Easiform homes in their unmodified state have low thermal efficiency. High heat loss, especially in winter, leads to expensive monthly heating bills. Improvements, such as external wall insulation, loft top-ups, and double-glazed window installation, are common upgrades.
- Mortgage provider restrictions
Some lenders restrict mortgages on Laing Easiform houses, depending on property age and condition. Fewer mortgage providers, especially for pre-1945 types, means you may have limited financing options compared to standard construction.
- Negative perceptions impacting resale
Market misconceptions about non-standard construction may make selling these homes difficult. Some buyers believe these houses lack structural integrity, which can slow the sale process even though Laing Easiform is generally more accepted than other non-standard builds.
| Problem Area | Typical Evidence | Impact | Common Mitigations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asbestos | Soffits, loft hatches, understair cupboards | Health risk | HSE-compliant asbestos removal |
| Corroded reinforcement | External wall cracking | Structural instability | Structural surveys and targeted repairs |
| Poor insulation | Higher energy bills, cold spots | Increased running costs | External/internal insulation, new windows |
| Lending restrictions | Fewer lenders, stricter terms | Harder to secure mortgages | Specialist mortgage advice |
| Resale challenges | Limited buyer pool, longer time on market | Reduced liquidity | Transparent property history information |
How can I identify an Easiform house?
You can recognise a Laing Easiform house by several distinguishing features rooted in its concrete construction method.
- Concrete Porches: Many Easiform homes have porches built from concrete, which contrasts with the brick or timber seen on traditional properties.
- Loft Party Wall: In the loft space, you’ll often find the party wall is smooth, grey concrete with visible raised lines instead of the brickwork or blockwork common in standard homes.
- Wall Thickness: Check the thickness of exterior and stairwell walls. Pre-1940s Easiform houses usually have thinner 3-inch concrete walls, a 2-inch cavity, and a 3-inch inner concrete skin. Later versions commonly use 3½-inch concrete skins separated by a 2-inch cavity.
- Rectangular External Vents: Easiform homes generally have rectangular-shaped vents set into the external walls, rather than round or brick slips.
- Steel Wall Ties: Glimpse steel ties or reinforcing rods at cable entry points or when observing damaged plaster along external walls.
- Repetitive Estate Layouts: You’ll often notice identical or mirror-image homes across streets where Easiform systems were employed in batches after World War II.
These elements, used together, reliably distinguish Easiform houses from brick-built or other nonstandard construction types. Confirmation often comes from property documentation or a professional building survey. In areas like Lockleaze in Bristol, pre-1940s Easiforms show thinner walls, while districts such as Bishopsworth display the thicker, postwar variants.
How else is Laing Easiform known?
You’ll frequently see Laing Easiform homes referenced as non-traditional construction properties in UK mortgage guidance. Estate agents, surveyors, and lenders may describe these houses with alternative names or identifiers based on their system-built origins and concrete structure.
- System-built homes: You may find Laing Easiform grouped under this term, which includes all properties built with cast-in-situ or prefabricated systems rather than standard bricks. These houses sit within a broader family of postwar rapid-build techniques.
- Concrete cavity wall houses: Entities in construction or mortgage documentation sometimes label these as concrete cavity wall homes due to their signature cast concrete walls with insulating cavities rather than solid brick fabric.
- Laing-built houses: Local authorities, property deeds, and historic housing records often identify these homes by their developer, John Laing & Son Ltd, especially in areas dominated by their postwar developments.
- Non-standard construction: Mortgage lenders usually classify Laing Easiform alongside other non-standard construction homes, which includes types like No-Fines concrete or Wimpey No-Fines. This term encompasses any property not made primarily with bricks and mortar.
- Easiforms or Easiform types: Some property listings and housing surveys directly abbreviate or generalise with ‘Easiform’, referencing the specific variant (MK1, MK2, MK3) or decade of build.
References to these alternate names can restrict your mortgage options, since lenders assess eligibility by construction type. Recognising these alternate identifiers helps you interpret survey reports, title deeds, or sales particulars when researching the mortgageability of a Laing Easiform property.
Is it easy to get a mortgage on Laing Easiform homes?
Securing a mortgage on Laing Easiform homes generally remains possible with mainstream lenders, since these properties were not classified as defective under the Housing Defects Act. Most major mortgage providers view postwar Laing Easiform variants as more robust than other non-standard construction houses. You may face reduced choice if your property was built before 1945, as several lenders restrict loans on pre-war Easiform construction citing greater potential risk.
Lending criteria for Laing Easiform mortgages often include an assessment of structural condition, with mortgage valuers focusing on possible reinforcement corrosion or visible cracks. You’ll usually need a comprehensive structural survey before approval, especially for homes built before 1945 or properties displaying signs of structural aging such as reinforcing bar corrosion or external wall fractures.
Non-standard construction status leads to fewer mortgage deals compared to standard brick homes. You’ll likely encounter higher deposit requirements or elevated interest rates. Some lenders may also cap loan-to-value (LTV) ratios. If you apply with a mortgage broker experienced in non-standard construction, you’ll expand your lender options by targeting providers that accept Laing Easiform houses.
While buyers often believe Easiform houses present significant risks, data shows these homes have not been classified as defective, and most have demonstrated long-term durability. You’ll speed up the mortgage process by addressing potential issues, such as repairing visible cracks, managing asbestos in building fabric, and documenting maintenance history to show ongoing care.
Below is a summary of common mortgage considerations for Laing Easiform homes:
| Mortgage Factor | Context for Laing Easiform Properties |
|---|---|
| Major lender acceptance | Generally available for post-1945 homes, often limited for pre-1945 builds |
| Loan-to-value (LTV) ratios | Typically lower than for brick homes (e.g. 75%-85% LTV) |
| Deposit requirement | Often 15%-25% of purchase price |
| Survey demands | Structural survey usually compulsory, especially for older homes |
| Rate offers | Less competitive than standard homes, examples include higher fixed rates |
| Application hurdles | Delays common due to lender caution and additional documentation/surveys |
If your home was constructed before 1945, finding a mortgage becomes more challenging, as fewer lenders view early Easiform properties as eligible. Properties from the late 1940s onward, particularly those with evidence of good structural health, often secure mortgages through high street banks or building societies with slightly less attractive terms.
Should I request a full building survey on a Laing Easiform house?
Requesting a full building survey on a Laing Easiform house identifies critical construction and maintenance issues that affect mortgage suitability. Laing Easiform homes use non-traditional concrete systems, so lenders often require detailed, independent assessments of their structural condition before approval. Level 3 Building Surveys, also known as full structural surveys, provide the most comprehensive evaluation available.
A chartered surveyor familiar with Laing Easiform construction documents the build type, assesses overall condition, checks for structural integrity, and highlights required or recommended repairs. This includes identifying problems such as corrosion of steel reinforcement, possible asbestos-containing materials, and moisture ingress, all of which commonly affect aging Easiform houses. Only a RICS or RPSA member surveyor brings the expertise to interpret non-standard construction details relevant to lending decisions.
Survey findings supply lenders with evidence of structural stability, directly influencing mortgage acceptance and terms. Without a detailed survey, you increase risks of refused applications or unexpected repair costs later. Up-to-date survey reports also offer reassurance to buyers if you later resell, helping to dispel myths about structural safety and increasing confidence in the transaction.
Thorough inspection records further serve as reference points for planned home improvements, insurance applications, or valuation disputes. Surveyor recommendations directly support future maintenance budgeting and prioritisation, contributing to long-term asset protection with Laing Easiform homes.
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Exploring your mortgage options for a Laing Easiform home means being proactive and well-informed. By understanding the construction type and working with the right specialists you’ll put yourself in a strong position to secure the best deal possible.
Don’t forget that a thorough survey and clear documentation can make all the difference when it comes to both your peace of mind and your lender’s confidence. With the right approach you can enjoy the unique benefits of a Laing Easiform property while navigating the mortgage process with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Laing Easiform house?
A Laing Easiform house is a type of non-traditional, concrete-built property constructed in the UK from the 1920s to the 1970s by John Laing & Son Ltd. These homes feature either solid or cavity-built concrete walls and are found mainly in postwar housing estates.
Can you get a mortgage on a Laing Easiform house?
Yes, many lenders will consider mortgages for Laing Easiform houses, especially those built after 1945. However, securing a mortgage may involve stricter criteria, larger deposits, and higher interest rates compared to standard brick homes.
Why are some lenders reluctant to mortgage Laing Easiform houses?
Lenders can be cautious due to the non-traditional concrete construction, age-related issues like steel reinforcement corrosion, and concerns about insulation and durability. Older properties, mainly pre-1945, face more scrutiny and limited mortgage options.
Are Laing Easiform houses considered defective?
No, Laing Easiform houses are not classified as defective under the Housing Defects Act. This status means many remain eligible for standard mortgages, unlike some other non-traditional construction types.
What problems are common in Laing Easiform homes?
Common issues include corrosion of steel reinforcement, poor thermal insulation, presence of asbestos, and potential external wall cracking. A thorough survey before purchase is highly recommended to identify and manage these problems.
How can I identify a Laing Easiform house?
Look for concrete porches, thick external concrete walls, smooth grey party walls in lofts, steel wall ties, rectangular external vents, and repetitive estate layouts. Professional surveys and historical property records can provide confirmation.
Is it harder to resell a Laing Easiform house?
These homes can sometimes be harder to sell than traditional brick houses due to negative perceptions and mortgage restrictions. Being transparent with survey reports and any maintenance history can help attract buyers.
What survey is needed for a Laing Easiform house?
A Level 3 Building Survey (full structural survey) is recommended. This survey assesses the property for structural issues, asbestos, moisture, and other potential concerns that affect both mortgage acceptance and long-term upkeep.
Are remortgage options available for Laing Easiform homes?
Yes, remortgaging is possible, especially for post-1945 variants. However, expect stricter lender criteria, and ensure the property’s condition is well documented through recent surveys.
How can I improve my chances of getting a mortgage on a Laing Easiform house?
Work with an experienced mortgage broker, get a comprehensive structural survey, provide clear property history, and be prepared for higher deposits or interest rates. Address any identified structural or insulation issues prior to application.
