NatWest has launched a new standalone additional borrowing process that will allow mortgage brokers to arrange extra lending for their clients at any point in the mortgage term, rather than being restricted to a four-month roll-off window.

The change marks a significant shift for the bank’s existing customers, who can now apply for additional borrowing of between £10,000 and £500,000 once they have made their first mortgage payment.

The move follows extensive broker feedback and comes alongside upgrades to NatWest’s broker portal, including a new document upload facility, product selection at the start of the application process, acceptance of foreign income in line with the bank’s list of approved currencies, improved case tracking and clearer decisions in principle.

The application journey has also been redesigned so that only relevant questions are asked, reducing manual input.

NatWest has also introduced a dedicated calculator to help brokers guide customers on how much they may be able to borrow.

Nadine Edwards, head of intermediary distribution, home buying and ownership at NatWest Group, said: “We make today’s announcement to place brokers right at the heart of our home ownership growth strategy.

“By making additional borrowing available outside the existing roll off window, we are enabling and empowering brokers to deliver a bespoke service to their customers.

“Life often throws up moments where the ability to borrow more capital can be transformational to an individual’s circumstances.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates that we are always looking to support brokers and their customers’ home ownership ambitions, wherever they are on the property ladder.”