Accord Mortgages has scrapped the requirement for copies of identification documents to be certified as part of the mortgage application process.

The intermediary-only lender has confirmed it will now accept photocopies of identification documents, such as passports and driving licences, without an endorsement that it is a true copy of the original.

Accord says the change will make uploading documents quicker and lead to an improved application experience.

These improvements have been made across Yorkshire Building Society Group, of which Accord Mortgages is part of, with the exception of documents relating to Power of Attorney or bereavement which still require certified copies or originals to be supplied.

Jeremy Duncombe, director of Accord Mortgages, said: “We understand and appreciate how important time is to brokers and their customers so constantly review our processes to make them more efficient.

“Removing the requirement for borrowers to supply certified documents, at the same time as ensuring other risk controls we have in place give us certainty over applicants’ identity, addresses a known pain point and makes the application quicker and smoother for everyone.

“We’re pleased to now be one of few lenders able to offer this and believe it shows our commitment to do everything we can to help brokers and their customers.”