In most cases, yes. If you are remortgaging with a new lender, you will usually need a conveyancing solicitor. A Conveyancing Solicitor will:

• complete the legal work
• redeem your existing mortgage
• check your property’s legal titl
• register your new lender’s legal charge with HM Land Registry

Although you’re not moving home, important legal checks still need to be completed. These protect both you and your new lender.

There are some exceptions. For example, you may not need a solicitor if you’re simply switching to a new mortgage product with your existing lender. This is known as a product transfer.

Whether legal work is required depends on your circumstances and your lender’s requirements.

At TBI Conveyancing, we help homeowners across England and Wales remortgage with confidence. Our experienced conveyancing solicitors provide clear advice, proactive communication, and practical support throughout the process.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• Whether you always need a solicitor to remortgage
• When legal work is and isn’t required
• What a remortgage conveyancing solicitor actually does
• Whether you can remortgage without a solicitor
• The pros and cons of using your lender’s free legal service
• Typical remortgage conveyancing costs and timescales
• How to choose the right solicitor for your remortgage

Do You Always Need a Solicitor to Remortgage?

If you’re remortgaging with a new mortgage lender, you’ll usually need a conveyancing solicitor to complete the legal work. Although you already own the property, your new lender still needs certain legal checks before it can release the mortgage funds. Your solicitor ensures these checks are completed and that the remortgage is registered correctly.

The main exception is a product transfer. This is where you stay with your existing mortgage lender but switch to a different mortgage product, such as moving from one fixed-rate deal to another. Because the lender isn’t changing, there is often less legal work involved and a solicitor may not be required.

However, a product transfer doesn’t always mean you can avoid legal advice. If you’re borrowing additional money, releasing equity, changing ownership of the property, or adding or removing someone from the mortgage, legal work is usually still required. Your lender’s own requirements will also influence whether a conveyancing solicitor needs to be involved.

The table below provides a general guide to when a solicitor is usually needed.

Remortgage scenario	Is a solicitor usually required?
Switching to a new mortgage lender	Yes
Staying with the same lender (product transfer)	Usually no
Borrowing additional money	Yes not always
Releasing equity	Yes
Transfer of equity	Yes
Adding or removing a joint owner	Yes

The type of remortgage you’re completing is the biggest factor in determining whether legal work is needed. If a new lender is involved, or the legal ownership of the property is changing, a conveyancing solicitor will almost always be required. Even where legal work appears minimal, your lender may still insist on using a solicitor to protect its interests and ensure the remortgage is completed correctly.

Why Do You Need a Solicitor When Remortgaging?

Although you’re not moving home, a remortgage still changes the legal agreement secured against your property. Before your new mortgage can complete, your lender needs to know that everything is legally correct.

A conveyancing solicitor carries out these checks to protect both you and your mortgage lender. Their work helps ensure the remortgage is completed safely, accurately, and without unnecessary delays.

Conveyancing solicitors do this by:

• Confirming you legally own the property. They check that the ownership details held by HM Land Registry match your mortgage application.
• Reviewing the property’s legal title. They look for restrictions, existing legal charges, or other issues that could affect the remortgage.
• Protecting your mortgage lender. They make sure the lender’s legal charge can be registered correctly, giving it security over the loan.
• Protecting you as the homeowner. Legal checks can uncover title errors or ownership issues before they become expensive problems.
• Preventing fraud. Your solicitor verifies your identity, carries out anti-money laundering checks, and helps ensure mortgage funds are transferred securely.
• Meeting HM Land Registry requirements. They ensure your previous mortgage is removed where appropriate and your new lender is registered correctly.

Why These Checks Matter

Imagine your solicitor discovers a restriction on your property’s title before completion. Without resolving it, your lender may be unable to register its legal charge, delaying your remortgage.

By identifying issues early, your solicitor has time to resolve them before completion. This helps your remortgage proceed smoothly and reduces the risk of legal problems later.

If you’d like to understand this process in more detail, read our guide on What Is Conveyancing?

Common Remortgage Scenarios

Every remortgage is slightly different. The legal work depends on why you’re changing your mortgage and whether your lender or property ownership is changing.

If you’re unsure which process applies to you, the examples below explain the most common remortgage situations.

I’m Switching to a New Mortgage Lender

This is the most common type of remortgage. You’re replacing your existing mortgage with one from a different lender, often to secure a better interest rate or more suitable mortgage product.

Before the new mortgage can complete, your existing loan must be repaid and the new lender’s legal charge registered against your property. Your conveyancing solicitor manages this process, carries out the legal checks required by the lender, and ensures the change is correctly recorded with HM Land Registry.

I’m Staying With My Existing Lender (Product Transfer)

A product transfer is different from a traditional remortgage. Instead of moving to another lender, you’re switching to a new mortgage deal with your current provider.

Because the lender isn’t changing, there is often much less legal work involved. In many cases, a solicitor isn’t needed because the existing legal charge remains in place.

However, legal work may still be required if you’re borrowing additional funds, changing the ownership of the property, or if your lender has its own legal requirements.

I’m Releasing Equity

Releasing equity means increasing your mortgage so you can access some of the value built up in your home. Homeowners often do this to fund renovations, repay debts, or cover other major expenses.

Although you already own the property, your mortgage is changing. Your lender will usually require legal checks before releasing the additional funds. Your solicitor ensures the updated mortgage is completed correctly and that the new legal charge is registered.

If you’re considering this option, read our guide on How to Release Equity from Your Home.

I’m Borrowing More Money

You may wish to increase the amount you borrow without changing your overall reason for remortgaging. This is common when funding home improvements or other significant purchases.

Because the lender is increasing the amount secured against your property, it may require additional legal checks. Your solicitor reviews the property’s title, deals with any legal issues, and ensures the updated mortgage can be registered correctly.

I’m Removing Someone From the Mortgage

Removing someone from a mortgage usually involves a Transfer of Equity. This changes the legal ownership of the property, not just the mortgage itself.

Your lender must normally approve the change before it can go ahead. A conveyancing solicitor prepares the legal documents, obtains the lender’s consent, and updates the ownership records with HM Land Registry.

For more information, read our Transfer of Equity page.

I’m Adding Someone to the Mortgage

Adding another person to a mortgage also changes the property’s legal ownership. This often happens when couples buy together or when a family member becomes a joint owner.

Before the change can be completed, your mortgage lender must approve the new ownership arrangement. Your solicitor prepares the legal documentation, satisfies the lender’s requirements, and registers the updated ownership details with HM Land Registry.

What Does a Conveyancing Solicitor Actually Do During a Remortgage?

Although much of the legal work happens behind the scenes, every stage plays an important role in completing your remortgage safely. The process is designed to protect you, satisfy your mortgage lender, and ensure your new mortgage is registered correctly.

The exact steps can vary depending on your circumstances, but a typical remortgage follows the process below.

1. Receiving Your Instructions

Once you’ve accepted your mortgage offer, your conveyancing solicitor opens your file and begins preparing your remortgage.

They gather information about your property, contact your mortgage lender where necessary, and explain the documents you’ll need to provide. They will also outline the process, answer any questions, and keep you informed throughout the transaction.

2. Verifying Your Identity

Before any legal work begins, your solicitor must confirm your identity.

This is a legal requirement for all conveyancing transactions. It helps prevent identity fraud, protects mortgage lenders, and ensures the remortgage complies with anti-money laundering regulations. You’ll normally be asked to provide photographic identification and proof of address.

3. Reviewing the Property Title

Your solicitor obtains the property’s title information from HM Land Registry.

They check that you are the legal owner and review the title for anything that could affect the remortgage. This includes restrictions, existing legal charges, or other issues your lender needs to know about before releasing the mortgage funds.

4. Checking the Mortgage Offer

Your solicitor reviews your formal mortgage offer and checks that all legal conditions can be met.

If your lender has any specific requirements, these are dealt with before completion. This helps avoid delays later in the process and ensures the remortgage can proceed smoothly.

5. Requesting a Redemption Statement

If you’re switching lenders, your solicitor requests a redemption statement from your current lender.

This document confirms exactly how much is needed to repay your existing mortgage on the completion date. It allows your solicitor to calculate how the new mortgage funds will be used and identify any remaining balance due to or from you.

6. Redeeming Your Existing Mortgage

On the agreed completion date, your solicitor uses the new mortgage funds to repay your existing lender.

Once the mortgage has been redeemed, the previous lender’s legal charge can be removed from the property’s title. This allows the new mortgage to replace the old one correctly.

7. Registering the New Mortgage

After completion, your solicitor applies to HM Land Registry to register your new lender’s legal charge.

Once the registration has been completed, the legal process is finished. Your lender’s interest is officially recorded against the property, and your remortgage is complete.

Can You Remortgage Without a Solicitor?

Usually, no. If you’re remortgaging with a new mortgage lender, you’ll almost always need a conveyancing solicitor. While there is no legal requirement to instruct one yourself, most lenders insist on legal representation before they will release the mortgage funds.

This isn’t simply to protect the lender. It also gives you the confidence that your remortgage is being completed correctly and that any legal issues are identified before they cause delays.

The main exception is a product transfer, where you stay with your existing lender and switch to a new mortgage deal. Because the lender isn’t changing, legal work is often minimal and a solicitor may not be required.

For most other remortgages, a conveyancing solicitor helps by:

• Protecting your interests by identifying title issues before they become costly problems.
• Meeting your lender’s legal requirements so your mortgage funds can be released without unnecessary delays.
• Handling identity and fraud checks to keep your property and finances secure.
• Managing the legal process from start to finish, including registering the new mortgage with HM Land Registry.
• Giving you peace of mind that every legal requirement has been completed correctly.

Most mortgage lenders also require a solicitor from their approved panel to act on their behalf. As a result, DIY remortgaging is rarely possible when you’re changing lenders.

For most homeowners, using an experienced conveyancing solicitor isn’t just a lender requirement. It’s the simplest way to ensure your remortgage is completed smoothly, accurately, and with the right legal protection.

How Much Does a Remortgage Solicitor Cost?

The cost of a remortgage solicitor varies depending on your property, your mortgage lender, and the complexity of the transaction. However, remortgaging is usually less expensive than buying or selling a home because fewer legal checks are involved.

As a general guide, you can expect to pay:

Typical cost	Indicative price
Legal fees	Pricing here – range/bracket £450 upwards depending on transaction
Disbursements	Pricing here – range/bracket – this is about £75 with us
Searches (where required)	Pricing here – range/bracket Approx. £200

While this can reduce your upfront costs, you won’t usually be able to choose who acts for you. The solicitor is also working to the lender’s process, which may not suit every homeowner.

Another option is a cashback remortgage. Your lender gives you a cash contribution towards your legal fees, allowing you to instruct your own conveyancing solicitor. Many homeowners prefer this because it offers greater choice while helping to offset the overall cost.

Why Do Remortgage Costs Vary?

No two remortgages are exactly the same. The legal work required depends on your circumstances and your lender’s requirements.

Costs may vary if you’re:

• Releasing equity
• Borrowing additional funds
• Adding or removing someone from the mortgage
• Dealing with a leasehold property
• Resolving title issues before completion

When comparing quotes, it’s worth checking exactly what’s included. A fixed-fee quote with no hidden costs can make it easier to budget and avoid unexpected charges later in the process.

Can You Add Solicitors’ Fees to Your Remortgage?

Sometimes, yes. Whether you can add your solicitors’ fees to your remortgage depends on your mortgage lender and how much you’re borrowing.

Some lenders allow you to borrow slightly more than you need to repay your existing mortgage. This means you may be able to include your legal fees within the new loan, rather than paying them upfront.

While this can reduce your immediate costs, it’s important to remember that you’ll usually pay interest on the additional amount for as long as the mortgage lasts. As a result, the legal fees could cost more over time than if you paid them separately.

Before deciding, it’s worth considering whether borrowing extra is necessary or whether you’d prefer to pay the fees upfront.

Other options include:

• Paying your solicitor’s fees from your own savings.
• Using a lender’s cashback offer to offset your legal costs.
• Choosing a lender that provides a free legal package, if it meets your needs.

If you’re unsure which option offers the best value, we can explain the costs involved. Our team will help you understand how each approach may affect your overall remortgage. Speak to us today for more information

Are There Any Other Costs When Remortgaging?

Yes, there can be. However, not every remortgage will involve all of the costs below. The fees you pay will depend on your mortgage lender, the type of remortgage you’re completing, and whether you use a mortgage broker.

Some of the most common costs include:

• Mortgage arrangement fee – Some lenders charge a fee for setting up your new mortgage. You may be able to pay this upfront or add it to your mortgage, although adding it means you’ll usually pay interest on it.
• Early repayment charge – If you leave your current mortgage before your fixed or discounted deal ends, your existing lender may charge an early repayment fee.
• Mortgage exit fee – Some lenders charge a small administration fee when your existing mortgage is redeemed and the account is closed.
• Mortgage broker fee – If you use a broker to arrange your remortgage, they may charge a fee for their advice and services. Many brokers are fee-free, while others charge a fixed fee or receive commission from the lender.
• Valuation fee – Your new lender may require a property valuation. In many cases, this is provided free of charge as part of the remortgage offer.
• Land Registry fee – A fee may be payable if an application needs to be made to HM Land Registry, although this doesn’t apply to every remortgage.

Before proceeding, ask your lender or broker for a full breakdown of the costs involved. Understanding the fees in advance makes it easier to compare mortgage deals and avoid unexpected expenses.

How Long Does Remortgage Conveyancing Take?

Most remortgages take between four and eight weeks to complete. However, the exact timescale depends on your circumstances and how quickly each stage of the process is completed.

Straightforward remortgages, particularly those with no title issues or ownership changes, can often be completed more quickly. More complex cases may take longer if additional legal work or lender requirements need to be addressed.

Some of the main factors that affect the timescale include:

• Your mortgage offer. Your solicitor can’t begin key stages of the process until your lender has issued a formal mortgage offer.
• Your existing lender. Delays can occur if it takes longer to provide a redemption statement or respond to legal enquiries.
• Your new lender. Each lender has its own processes and requirements, which can affect how quickly your remortgage progresses.
• Your conveyancing solicitor. An experienced solicitor who communicates proactively can help keep your remortgage on track.
• HM Land Registry. Registration takes place after completion and doesn’t usually delay you receiving your new mortgage. However, processing times can vary.
• Outstanding legal issues. Title errors, restrictions, or ownership changes may need to be resolved before your remortgage can complete.

While every remortgage is different, providing your documents promptly and responding quickly to any requests can help avoid unnecessary delays.

If you’d like a more detailed breakdown of each stage, read our guide on How Long Does It Take to Remortgage?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Remortgage Before Your Fixed-Rate Mortgage Ends?

Yes, you can remortgage before your fixed-rate mortgage ends, but you may have to pay an early repayment charge (ERC). Whether it’s worthwhile depends on how much the charge is compared with the savings available from a new mortgage deal.

Many homeowners begin researching new mortgage products three to six months before their current deal expires. This gives them time to compare lenders, arrange a mortgage offer, and instruct a conveyancing solicitor so the remortgage can complete as soon as any early repayment charges no longer apply.

Can You Remortgage a Leasehold Property?

Yes, you can remortgage a leasehold property in the same way as a freehold property. However, the legal process is often slightly more complex because your mortgage lender will usually require additional checks on the lease.

Your conveyancing solicitor may need to:

• Review the remaining lease term.
• Check for restrictions within the lease.
• Confirm the lease meets your lender’s requirements.
• Resolve any lease-related issues before completion.

If the remaining lease is considered too short, some lenders may refuse to lend or offer fewer mortgage products. Your solicitor can identify these issues early and explain your options.

Can You Remortgage if You’re Self-Employed?

Yes. Being self-employed doesn’t stop you from remortgaging, although your mortgage lender will usually ask for additional evidence of your income before approving your application.

Depending on how you trade, you may need to provide tax calculations, tax year overviews, company accounts, or accountant-prepared financial statements. Once your mortgage has been approved, the legal conveyancing process is generally the same as it would be for any other homeowner.

Preparing your financial documents in advance can help your mortgage application and remortgage progress more smoothly.

Does Remortgaging Affect Your Credit Score?

Yes, but usually only slightly and for a short period. Most mortgage lenders carry out a credit search when you apply for a remortgage, which may cause a temporary reduction in your credit score.

For most homeowners, this isn’t a cause for concern. Your score will often recover as long as you continue managing your finances responsibly and make your mortgage payments on time.

If you’re planning to remortgage, avoid making multiple mortgage applications within a short period. Comparing deals through a mortgage broker or obtaining an agreement in principle can help reduce unnecessary credit searches.

Can You Remortgage if Your House Has Increased in Value?

Yes. If your property’s value has increased, you may be able to access better mortgage deals because your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio has improved.

A lower LTV often gives lenders greater confidence and can result in:

• More competitive interest rates.
• Lower monthly repayments.
• A wider choice of mortgage products.
• The option to release equity if needed.

Your lender will usually carry out a valuation to confirm the property’s current market value before making a final mortgage offer.

Can You Choose Your Own Conveyancing Solicitor When Remortgaging?

Usually, yes. Most mortgage lenders allow you to choose your own conveyancing solicitor, provided they are a member of the lender’s approved panel.

Some lenders also offer a free legal service or cashback towards your legal costs. While these can reduce your upfront expenses, many homeowners prefer to instruct their own solicitor for greater choice, direct communication, and a more personalised service.

Before instructing a solicitor, it’s worth checking that they are approved to act for your chosen mortgage lender.

What Documents Do You Need to Remortgage?

The documents required for a remortgage vary between lenders, but you’ll usually need proof of identity, proof of address, and details of your existing mortgage. Your lender may also ask for financial information to assess your application.

Common documents include:

• A valid passport or driving licence.
• A recent utility bill or bank statement.
• Your latest mortgage statement.
• Payslips or proof of income.
• Bank statements.
• Your mortgage offer.

Providing the requested documents promptly can help your lender and conveyancing solicitor progress your remortgage without unnecessary delays.

Need Help With Your Remortgage?

Although remortgaging is often simpler than buying a property, the legal work is still an important part of the process. It helps protect your interests, gives your mortgage lender the confidence to release the funds, and ensures your new mortgage is registered correctly.

Whether you’re switching lenders, releasing equity, borrowing more, or changing the ownership of your property, understanding what’s involved can help your remortgage progress more smoothly. If you’re unsure which type of remortgage applies to you or whether you’ll need a conveyancing solicitor, professional advice can provide clarity from the outset.

At TBI Conveyancing, our experienced conveyancing solicitors support homeowners across England and Wales with straightforward, fixed-fee remortgage conveyancing. We provide clear advice, proactive communication, and expert legal support from instruction through to completion, helping make your remortgage as simple and stress-free as possible.