Steel framed houses are found across many parts of the UK, particularly in areas that saw rapid housebuilding after the Second World War. From the outside, they can look similar to traditionally built homes. However, their construction method can affect surveys, mortgages and home insurance.
This guide explains what steel framed houses are, why they were built, the common types found in the UK, and what homeowners and buyers should know, especially when it comes to mortgages and insurance.
A steel framed house uses a steel skeleton as its main structural support. Instead of load-bearing brick or stone walls, the weight of the building is carried by a framework of steel columns and beams. External walls are then added around the frame, often using brick, blockwork, render or cladding.
This means a steel framed house can appear similar to a standard property from the outside, even though the structural frame beneath is very different.
Steel framed housing became more common in the UK during the mid-20th century, particularly after the Second World War. The country faced severe housing shortages and the need to build homes quickly and at scale.
Industrialised building systems helped speed up construction, using factory-made components that could be assembled more efficiently on site. Many steel framed homes were built to provide safe, practical housing at a time of urgent demand.
Several steel frame systems were used across the UK. Some are widely recognised by surveyors and lenders; others may be assessed on a case-by-case basis depending on condition and any remedial work carried out over the years.
BISF homes are among the better-known steel framed properties in the UK. Many have been upgraded or altered since they were first built, and some are mortgageable and insurable depending on their condition and documentation.
Other systems were designed for rapid construction using factory-made elements. Lender acceptance can vary, so a detailed survey is often the best starting point.
Some newer houses also use steel frame construction, including hybrid designs that combine steel with other materials. These may not carry the same historical issues as older systems, but they can still be classed as non-standard construction.
In mortgage and insurance terms, a home is often classed as non-standard construction if its structure or external walls are not made entirely from brick, stone or concrete.
Because steel framed houses rely on a metal structural frame, they are usually considered non-standard. This does not mean they are unsafe or uninsurable — but it can mean you may need a lender or insurer that is comfortable assessing non-standard properties.
If you’re exploring broader options, you may also find our non-standard home insurance guide helpful.
Not all steel framed houses have problems. However, surveyors, lenders and insurers often look closely at a few areas, particularly in older properties:
Mortgage lenders can be cautious with steel framed properties, especially older systems. Some lenders may request a more detailed inspection than they would for a standard brick-built home.
A detailed survey helps confirm construction type, highlights any issues that need attention, and provides reassurance about the property’s condition.
Yes, but not always through standard home insurance policies.
Because steel framed houses are usually classed as non-standard construction, some mainstream insurers may decline cover or apply restrictions. Specialist insurers are often more comfortable assessing these homes, and may consider factors such as:
For specialist cover, see our steel framed house insurance page.
Not necessarily. Insurance costs depend on the overall risk profile of the home, not just the construction type. A well-maintained steel framed house with a good history and clear survey documentation may cost no more to insure than a traditionally built property.
Premiums are often influenced by factors such as rebuild cost, location, security, claims history, and the condition of the property.
If you’re unsure how your home was built, there are several ways to confirm its construction type:
Steel framed homes can be bought and sold successfully, but it helps to be organised. Buyers, lenders and insurers may ask more questions than they would for a standard construction property.
Many steel framed homes have been lived in safely for decades. As with any property, condition matters, so a professional survey is the best way to understand a specific home.
Usually yes. In mortgage and insurance terms, steel framed houses are typically classed as non-standard construction because the structure is not traditional masonry.
Some lenders will consider them, but requirements can be stricter. A detailed survey and good documentation often help.
Yes. Standard insurers may not always cover non-standard construction, but specialist insurers often can, depending on the frame type and condition.
Not always. Premiums depend on the overall risk profile, including condition, location, rebuild cost and claims history, not just construction type.
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