There is no specific regulatory requirement to produce a suitability report for mortgages.
To our mind, this is crazy thinking and it is our strong recommendation that firms should issue reports for all mortgage related business, be it regulated or not, because this provides good protection against potential complaints.
Think about it another way – will your business be more, or less valuable, if every case is supported by a good quality suitability report?
Important Note: ATEB news is intended to provide general information ONLY. The content, including any views expressed or guidance provided, does not replace the need to comply fully with FCA Rules and Guidance. Unless you have discussed news article content with ATEB, and specifically how it relates to your circumstances, then ATEB disclaims all liability and responsibility and actions arising from any reliance placed upon it. For the avoidance of doubt therefore, any reliance you place on such information without our consultation is at your own risk.
ATEB Compliance offers compliance and regulatory advice.
ATEB Suitability provides report writing software for the financial services market.
The FCA is consulting on proposed guidance to firms in dealing with vulnerable clients.
While this paper is mostly of relevance to Pension Providers, there are some implications for advisers.
See here for dates and registration details.
The FCA has stated clearly that monitoring firms’ implementation of the Conduct Rules will be a key focus in future reviews of of SM&CR.
FCA video guide to pension transfer advice for consumers
Alistair MacDougall Compliance FCA, Pension, Pension Transfer
Although aimed at consumers, firms involved in transfer advice would do well to view the video.