A capped rate mortgage has an interest rate that cannot rise above a pre-determined level for a specified period of time. After the capped rate period expires, the interest rate of the mortgage reverts to the lender’s Standard Variable Rate (SVR).
A cap and collar mortgage is similar to a capped rate mortgage except that is also has a lower limit, beneath which the interest rate cannot fall over a specified period of time.
For example, if a borrower applies for a cap and collar mortgage with a cap of 7% and a collar of 5% and a cap and collar period of two years, the interest will move between 5% and 7% during that period of time. If the lender’s SVR rises above 7%, or falls below 5%, the interest rate on the cap and collar mortgage product will remain within this band.
A cap and collar mortgage provides the same hedge against future interest rate rises that a capped mortgage does, however, it will remove the benefit of being able to take advantage of future decreases in the lender’s SVR.
This means that the lender will be more certain of the amount of interest it will be able to collect from the borrower during the cap and collar period. Because of this, the overall risk of the mortgage is reduced, and the lender can issue the cap and collar mortgage product with a slightly lower interest rate than a capped mortgage product without the collar attached.
A capped mortgage – with or without a collar attached – is a useful option for borrowers who wish to protect themselves against future interest rate rises. Capped mortgage products are at their most popular during periods of low interest rates that are predicted to end within the near future.
It should be noted that capped mortgage applicants will normally be charged an arrangement fee by the lender. The capped mortgage will also usually come with a higher interest rate than a standard product with a variable interest rate that has no upper or lower limit and that can be changed at the lender’s discretion.
Professional advice should be sought before applying for a capped mortgage to ensure that it is the right mortgage product for your individual needs.

