Aldermore has expanded its mortgage range to appeal to self-employed contractors operating via a limited company or sole trader, enabling them to be assessed for affordability on an employed basis using gross income.

Prospective buyers need to have either 12 months’ history as a contractor or 24 months in the same line of work, providing there are two months remaining or a renewal agreed.

Income for contractors will be determined based on the day or hourly rate of their current contract, multiplied across 46 weeks.

All contractors will have access to Aldermore’s standard mortgage products, up to 90% loan to value (LTV) for self-employed contractors and up to 95% LTV for those working via an umbrella company or a fixed term contract.

Aldermore also has a range of adverse criteria that can be considered for contractors who may need further flexibility.

Aldermore director of mortgages Jon Cooper commented: “We know homebuyers have more varied and complex circumstances than ever before, especially those who are self-employed contractors. Aldermore’s flexible approach for people who are sometimes overlooked enables us to back more customers on their individual merits and enable them to get the mortgage that’s right for them. If the loan makes good sense, we will always strive to make it work and find a solution.”