Coventry for intermediaries has eased its mortgage stress testing criteria, enabling borrowers to secure up to £35,000 more towards the purchase of a home.

The lender’s revised approach will see reductions in its residential stress rates, increasing the maximum loan size by 8–15% for a wide range of borrowers.

This change could benefit first-time buyers, home movers and remortgagers alike, significantly enhancing affordability at a time when buyers are contending with tighter budgets and cautious lending conditions.

The Coventry said brokers can check revised affordability limits using its updated calculator on the intermediary portal.

The move follows a period of tentative rate reductions across the mortgage market and comes in response to the Financial Conduct Authority’s recent guidance allowing lenders more leeway in how they apply stress testing. The regulator has reminded firms that flexibility is permitted, particularly where it could improve consumer outcomes.

Kevin Purvey, director of mortgage distribution at Coventry Building Society, said: “In a market where affordability has become one of the biggest challenges, every bit of extra headroom can make a huge difference.

“We’ve taken a fresh look at our stress rates and made changes that will give brokers more options to help clients achieve their goals.

“It’s a practical way of responding to what the FCA has signalled – and ultimately it’s about making homeownership a little more accessible.

“We know brokers are key in helping people navigate this market, and we’re committed to backing them with competitive lending options.”