Independent surveyors trade body RPSA has performed a u-turn on its guidance regarding spray foam insulation.

The controversial substance is blamed for around 250,000 homes being ineligible for mortgages as lenders fear the long-term effects.

Many experts believe the spray polyurethane (PU) causes damp issues within roofs, and surveyors often recommend it is removed before a house purchase is agreed. This has resulted in a tightening of lending criteria and prevented many homeowners being unable to sell their property.

The RPSA (Residential Property Surveyors Association) has now retracted guidance it published in December last year, which said that if no detailed technical information is available, then surveyors should recommend the foam is removed and the roof replaced.

A group of stakeholders supported by the Insulation Manufacturers Association (IMA), which includes spray foam manufacturers and installers, surveyors, valuers and lenders, is collaborating to standardise installation procedures and develop inspection protocols.

Factually inaccurate

Elizabeth Lalli-Reese, Huntsman Building Solutions global vice-president, says “We believe that the guidance issued by the RPSA in December 2021 was factually inaccurate creating unwarranted concern amongst homeowners and lenders and call for it to be retracted.

“Spray foam is a proven technology to making our homes more efficient and is a practical, sensible and safe option for homeowners.”

Now, RPSA says it is reviewing this guidance, and Alan Milstein, RPSA chairman, says: “We recognise the concerns raised by Huntsman, and are encouraged by the positive way in which all parties have approached this initiative.

“So, we have agreed to retract our current guidance pending a full review. Our ambition is that we can republish it, based on the outcomes from the industry group, by Spring 2023 and provide our members with the detailed knowledge necessary to risk assess any spray foam installation.”