The interest coverage ratio used for consumer buy-to-let affordability calculations has been reduced from 145% to 125% of the monthly mortgage payment calculated at 6.5% or 2% above the pay rate.

The society has also changed its policy to include expats who have lived overseas for more than five years.

The criteria available on expat property types has also been brought into line with recent enhancements across the wider buy-to-let product range to encompass 10 storey flats, including those located in city centres and above commercial units.

Intermediary sales manager Tom Denman-Molloy (pictured) said: “These new changes mean that we can be more accommodating for expats by reducing the rental income hurdle for consumer buy-to-let landlords and making ourselves available to landlords who have been expats for a more prolonged period.”