This is a premium charged by Lenders in order to indemnify themselves, and NOT the borrower, against any financial shortfall they may incur in the event of repossessing a property, which must then be sold at a loss. It is applicable if the amount required is higher than a certain percentage of the property value, usually 75% LTV; often the Lender will pay the cost of this insurance themselves between 75% and 90% LTV. The charge may either be added to the loan or deducted from the advance on completion. Also known as an, Additional Security Fee, Indemnity, Mortgage Indemnity Guarantee (MIG).
