What is a building society?
Building societies are different to banks because they are owned by their customers, who are members. The first building society was formed in Birmingham in 1774. They were originally set up by groups of local people, saving together to buy their own homes. Over 230 years later, building societies continue to help their members with their financial needs.
As a building society we are not owned by outside shareholders, but by you - the people who invest their savings or have a mortgage with the Coventry. It means that we don't have to pay dividends to outside shareholders, so all of our decisions can be made in the interests of our members.
At the Coventry we mean it when we say 'tlc not plc'.
History of the Coventry>>
Being a building society makes the Coventry different. It means we have the freedom to manage the business in the true interests of our members. It's something that we take very seriously. After all, it's not our business, it's your business.
Here are the five principles we work to:
You are guaranteed a fair deal at the Coventry
Treating you fairly doesn't just mean attractive rates on savings and mortgages. It means being clear and honest, offering deals that give you consistently good value with no hidden catches. Find out more about what fair deals mean for you>>
We treat all members equally
We value each member, so all new accounts are available equally to new and existing customers. And you'll get the same quality service whether you've got £100 or £100,000. Find out more about what being a member means>>
We will seek our members' views
Going to great lengths to understand our members means that we're keen to listen to what you have to say. Coventry membership means you get plenty of opportunities to make your opinion heard. Find out how you can keep in touch and play your part>>
We will support the communities we live in
Why? Because we think it's the right thing to do. Whether it's through charitable fundraising, educational partnerships or simply working harder to protect our environment, the Coventry has a role to play. Find out what we're doing to make a difference>>
We will deliver the service we promise
It's only right that our members get the service they deserve. So we put a lot of time and effort into getting this right. Find out more about service at the Coventry>>