The Leeds Building Society is extending its suspension of arrears fees until the end of 2021.

Jaedon Green, the Leeds Building Society’s chief customer officer, said: “As a responsible lender we’ve focused since early 2020 on how we can support our members through the particular challenges created by the pandemic.

“We know this remains a worrying time for many people and ongoing economic uncertainty is likely to affect the job security and finances of much of the population for some months to come.

“Suspending our arrears fees for the rest of this year is one way we can support borrowers in financial difficulties as we work with our members to keep them in their homes.”

The Society chose to first waive arrears fees 12 months ago, as well as introducing other support for existing borrowers such as mortgage payment deferrals. It created a dedicated coronavirus hub on its website with the latest information for members seeking help, enlarged its team handling incoming telephone inquiries, and agreed not to seek possession of any properties.

Green added: “Our message to any borrower at risk of financial difficulty always is to talk to their lender at the first opportunity.

“The sooner we’re contacted, the quicker we can help and will work closely with our members to explore and agree a solution to best suit their individual circumstances.

“Customers in arrears may face third party charges but by engaging with us and their other credit providers at the earliest stage these costs can be kept to a minimum.”