Who Are Mears?

Mears Group is a government-contracted provider of accommodation and support services for asylum seekers and vulnerable individuals across the UK. Working closely with the Home Office, Mears leases residential properties from private landlords to house those in need. Their model removes the burden of tenant management, offering landlords a secure and reliable income backed by long-term contracts.

What Is a Mears Buy to Let Mortgage?

A Mears Buy to Let Mortgage is a specialist mortgage product designed for landlords who rent their properties to Mears under a corporate lease agreement. Because these agreements are not standard Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs), most traditional buy to let lenders will not accept them. This makes it essential to work with lenders — and brokers — who understand this niche.

What Do Landlords Get With a Mears Lease?

Mears offers a hands-off property letting experience with multiple benefits, including:

• Fixed 5-year lease agreements, with reliable rent payments each month.

• Maintenance and repairs covered, except for hidden or structural issues.

• Utilities and council tax paid by Mears directly.

• No letting or management fees charged to landlords.

• HMO compliance, regular inspections, and safety checks managed for you.

This setup ensures stability, minimal hassle, and strong rental yields — ideal for landlords looking for passive income with social impact.

Can You Get a Mortgage on a Property Let to Mears?

Yes — but you need the right lender.

Not every mortgage provider will allow you to rent your property to Mears. Letting a property on a corporate lease without your lender’s approval could breach your mortgage terms. That’s why a Mears Buy to Let Mortgage is essential — it’s designed specifically to work with this leasing model.

What About Leases Longer Than 5 Years?

While Mears may offer leases that extend beyond five years, most mortgage lenders will only accept lease agreements up to five years in length. If you’re considering a longer lease, speak to a specialist broker who can match you with a lender willing to accommodate it.

Why Consider Letting to Mears?

Leasing to Mears can be a smart strategy for landlords who want:

• Zero tenant involvement – Mears manages everything.

• No void periods – Long-term leases provide consistent income.

• Secure rent – Payments come from a government-backed organisation.

• Positive impact – You’re helping provide safe housing for vulnerable individuals.

It’s a combination of ethical letting and reliable returns.

Who Are the Tenants?

Mears properties typically house vulnerable individuals, including:

• Asylum seekers and refugees

• Victims of domestic violence

• People experiencing homelessness

• Those with physical or mental health challenges

Landlords play a vital role in this housing ecosystem, and Mears ensures tenants receive wraparound support services throughout the tenancy.

Preparing Your Property for Mears

Before leasing your property to Mears, certain standards must be met. These usually include:

• A valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

• Fire risk assessments and safety certificates

• Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) for all electrical items

• High standards of cleanliness and decor

• HMO licensing if applicable

Ensuring your property is compliant from the start makes the approval and handover process smoother.

Finding the Right Mears Buy to Let Mortgage

Most high street lenders won’t allow you to lease to Mears — but that’s where we come in.

At Knox Mortgages, we specialise in securing Mears Buy to Let Mortgages through a network of lenders who understand corporate leases and social housing models. We can:

• Match you with lenders who accept Mears leases

• Review your current mortgage options

• Guide you through lease and lending compliance

• Support your long-term investment strategy

Speak to a Specialist Today

If you’re already renting to Mears — or considering it — make sure your mortgage supports your setup. A Mears Buy to Let Mortgage ensures you’re compliant, protected, and positioned for long-term success.

👉 Book a free initial meeting with Knox Mortgages to discuss your options: https://calendar.knoxmortgages.co.uk

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