Lost passport out of time application. Advice please.

[Anon2016]

What are the chances of an out of time spousal flr to be accepted if a passport can't be submitted with application?

First in time application rejected as invalid. We are resubmitting and correcting all issues highlighted but we are still waiting on passport - it was lost/stolen. We have crime ref number from before visa expiry and we have proof of new passport being in process.

We have been told to write cover letter with our now out of time application but wondered if anyone else has had similar experience please? Is it likely to be accepted providing we can explain or is it more likely to be rejected?

[Anon2016]

Is anyone able to help please. Many thanks