|
|
The FCA had previously identified that there was a trend of increasing long-term arrears cases, whilst the number of homes being repossessed had been falling. As a result of this widening trend, the FCA set out in its Business Plan 2017/18 to examine whether customers with long-term mortgage arrears were experiencing harm from extended forbearance.
Examples of harm could include forbearance arrangements which were unaffordable, with severe consequences for the overall financial situation of customers, or where the debt continues to grow. It could also ultimately result in a repossession with considerably reduced equity in their homes.
Overall, the FCA did not identify widespread harm to customers from extended forbearance. However, it did see some inconsistencies in firms’ arrears management practices. These findings have been published and firms offering or administering mortgages should read these and where necessary make improvements.
This work was undertaken against a backdrop of low interest rates where the interest on arrears balances was relatively low. It’s important that customers who are already in long term arrears, and mortgage customers who might go into arrears with an increase in interest rates, or a change to their personal circumstances are aware of what actions they should be taking.
Customers should: