
At Kempton Redman Law, we frequently help clients who are looking to remortgage their property. Remortgaging can be a smart financial decision, whether you're looking to reduce your monthly payments, secure a better interest rate, or release equity from your home. However, it’s important to know that a solicitor plays a vital role in the process to ensure everything goes smoothly. In this blog, we’ll guide you through when and why you’ll need a solicitor when remortgaging your property.
What Does Remortgaging Involve?
Remortgaging simply means switching from your current mortgage to a new one, either with your existing lender or a new one. People typically remortgage for several reasons:
- To get a better interest rate: Many homeowners remortgage to take advantage of lower interest rates, particularly when their current fixed or discounted term is ending.
- To release equity: If the value of your home has increased, you may want to borrow additional funds by releasing some of the equity you've built up.
- To consolidate debts: Some people remortgage to consolidate their existing debts into one manageable payment.
- To switch mortgage type: You may want to switch from a variable rate to a fixed rate to avoid interest rate fluctuations, or vice versa.
When Do You Need a Solicitor for Remortgaging?
The legal process of remortgaging isn’t as complex as buying a property, but you still need a solicitor to handle certain legal aspects of the transaction. You’ll need a solicitor when:
- You’re switching lenders: If you are moving to a different mortgage lender, a solicitor is essential to carry out the legal work required to transfer your mortgage. They will deal with the redemption of your old mortgage, register the new lender’s interest in the property, and handle any required title checks.
- You’re borrowing additional funds: If you’re remortgaging to release equity, a solicitor is required to ensure the terms are legally sound, and to register the new mortgage amount with the Land Registry.
- There are ownership changes: If your remortgage involves changes in property ownership, such as adding or removing a person’s name from the mortgage, a solicitor is required to handle the legal documentation and registration of these changes.

At What Stage Should You Involve a Solicitor?
Once you’ve decided to remortgage and have started shopping for new mortgage deals, it’s time to think about instructing a solicitor. In most cases, your lender will require that you have a solicitor in place before they proceed with the remortgage process. Here’s a breakdown of when to bring a solicitor on board:
1. After securing a mortgage offer: Once you’ve chosen a new mortgage deal, you should instruct a solicitor as soon as your lender has made a formal offer. This ensures that the legal process can begin immediately.
2. If the lender appoints their own solicitor: Some lenders offer "free legals" as part of a remortgage package, where they appoint their own solicitor to handle the legal work. While this can save you money, it’s important to ensure the solicitor acts in your best interest, or you can opt to hire your own solicitor to represent you which we recommend.
3. For more complex cases: If your remortgage involves releasing equity or making ownership changes, it’s best to involve a solicitor early in the process. This way, they can advise you on the legal implications and make sure your documentation is in order.
How a Solicitor Helps With Remortgaging
The role of your solicitor in a remortgage process involves handling the legal paperwork, protecting your interests, and ensuring compliance with the lender’s requirements. Here are some of the key responsibilities:
- Title checks: The solicitor will check the title deeds to ensure that there are no legal issues with your property that could affect the remortgage. They may also arrange for searches to ensure there are no new restrictions or legal claims on the property.
- Redeeming your current mortgage: Your solicitor will contact your current mortgage provider to obtain a redemption statement, which details the amount needed to pay off the existing loan.
- Registering the new mortgage: The solicitor will ensure that your new mortgage lender’s interest in the property is properly registered with the Land Registry and that the lender’s funds are released in time to complete the remortgage.
- Dealing with any legal issues: If any issues arise during the process, such as disputes over property ownership or boundary concerns, your solicitor will work to resolve these so the remortgage can go ahead smoothly.
Why Choosing the Right Solicitor Matters
Remortgaging is a legal transaction that involves transferring large sums of money and registering new ownership details. While some may think the process is straightforward, having an experienced solicitor on your side ensures there are no costly mistakes or delays.
At Kempton Redman Law, we have extensive experience helping clients through the remortgage process. Our team works quickly and efficiently to meet your lender’s requirements, ensuring a smooth transition to your new mortgage deal.
Conclusion
Remortgaging your property can be a smart financial move, but it comes with important legal steps that require the expertise of a solicitor. Whether you're switching lenders, releasing equity, or making ownership changes, a solicitor ensures that your remortgage is legally sound and free from complications.
If you’re considering remortgaging, contact Kempton Redman Law today. Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your transaction is handled smoothly and efficiently.
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