Remortgage Conveyancing Explained
Remortgage conveyancing is the legal process required when you change your mortgage lender or refinance an existing mortgage on a property you already own. While remortgaging does not involve buying or selling a home, it still requires important legal work to ensure the new mortgage is properly secured and registered.
Understanding how remortgage conveyancing works can help homeowners plan ahead, avoid delays, and ensure a smooth transition to a new mortgage product or lender.
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What Is Remortgage Conveyancing?
Remortgage conveyancing refers to the legal steps involved when an existing mortgage is replaced with a new one. This commonly happens when homeowners reach the end of a fixed-rate deal, want to secure a better interest rate, or wish to release equity from their property.
A conveyancing solicitor is responsible for checking the legal title of the property, liaising with mortgage lenders, and ensuring the new mortgage is correctly registered with the Land Registry once the remortgage completes.
When Is Conveyancing Required for a Remortgage?
You will usually need a solicitor for remortgage conveyancing if:
- You are switching to a new mortgage lender
- Equity is being released from the property
- The ownership structure of the property is changing
- Your lender requires independent legal representation
If you are simply changing products with your existing lender, legal conveyancing may not be required. However, most lender changes involve formal conveyancing to remove the old mortgage charge and register the new one.
The Remortgage Conveyancing Process
Although remortgage conveyancing is typically more straightforward than buying or selling a property, there are still several key legal stages involved.
The process usually includes:
- Reviewing the property title to confirm ownership
- Checking for restrictions, charges, or legal issues
- Requesting redemption figures from the existing lender
- Liaising with the new lender to meet their requirements
- Registering the new mortgage with the Land Registry
Your solicitor ensures that the existing mortgage is paid off correctly and that the new lender’s interest in the property is legally protected.
How Long Does Remortgage Conveyancing Take?
Most remortgage conveyancing transactions take between 2 and 4 weeks, depending on:
- Familiarity with local councils and search processes
- Knowledge of regional property risks
- Established relationships with Kent estate agents
- Clear communication and accountability
Your solicitor ensures that the existing mortgage is paid off correctly and that the new lender’s interest in the property is legally protected.
How Much Does Remortgage Conveyancing Cost?
Remortgage conveyancing fees are generally lower than purchase or sale conveyancing because the legal work is more limited.
Costs typically include:
- Fixed legal fees
- Land Registry charges
- Bank transfer (CHAPS) fees
- Any lender-specific legal requirements
Some mortgage lenders offer “free legal” remortgage deals. While these can be convenient, they often involve panel solicitors and limited communication. Using your own solicitor gives you greater control, clarity, and personal service.
Remortgage Conveyancing FAQs
Do I need a solicitor to remortgage my property?
In most cases, yes. If you are switching to a new mortgage lender, a solicitor is usually required to carry out the legal work involved in removing the old mortgage and registering the new one. Some product transfers with the same lender may not require conveyancing.
Is remortgage conveyancing quicker than buying or selling?
Yes. Remortgage conveyancing is generally faster because there is no property chain, no contract negotiation, and fewer legal checks required. Most remortgages complete within 2–4 weeks, depending on lender requirements.
Can I use my own solicitor for a remortgage?
Yes. You are free to choose your own conveyancing solicitor, provided they are accepted by your mortgage lender. Using your own solicitor often provides better communication and a more personal service than lender-appointed “free legal” options.
What happens to my existing mortgage when I remortgage?
On completion, your solicitor uses the funds from the new lender to repay your existing mortgage in full. The old lender’s charge is then removed from the Land Registry and replaced with the new lender’s charge.
Are searches required for remortgage conveyancing?
Full property searches are usually not required for a remortgage. However, some lenders may request limited searches or search indemnity insurance. Your solicitor will advise based on your lender’s specific requirements.
Can I release equity during a remortgage?
Yes. Many homeowners remortgage to release equity for home improvements, debt consolidation, or other purposes. If equity is being released, your solicitor ensures the lender’s conditions are met and that funds are transferred correctly.
How much does remortgage conveyancing cost?
Remortgage conveyancing is typically less expensive than buying or selling a property. Costs vary depending on the complexity of the title and lender requirements, but fees are usually fixed and transparent from the outset.
Will remortgaging affect my property ownership?
No. Remortgaging does not change property ownership unless you are also adding or removing someone from the title. If ownership changes are required, additional legal work may be needed.
Can remortgage conveyancing be done remotely?
Yes. Most remortgage conveyancing can be completed remotely using email, phone, and electronic ID checks. In-person visits are rarely required.
What can delay a remortgage?
Common causes of delay include:
Waiting for the mortgage offer from the new lender
Issues with the property title
Delays in redemption figures from the existing lender
Additional lender conditions
An experienced conveyancing solicitor can help minimise these delays.
Is remortgage conveyancing mandatory if I stay with the same lender?
Not always. If you are switching mortgage products with the same lender and no legal changes are required, conveyancing may not be needed. Your lender will confirm whether legal work is required.
Why choose a local conveyancing solicitor in Kent for a remortgage?
A local Kent-based solicitor is familiar with regional property issues, Land Registry processes, and lender expectations. This can help ensure a smoother and more efficient remortgage process.
Can I Release Equity During a Remortgage?
Yes. Many homeowners remortgage to release equity for purposes such as:
Home improvements
Debt consolidation
Property investment
Personal or family expenses
If equity is being released, your solicitor will ensure all lender conditions are met and that funds are transferred correctly on completion.
Start Your Remortgage Conveyancing Today
If you are remortgaging a property in Kent, our experienced conveyancing team can guide you through the process efficiently and clearly.
We offer:
- Fixed, transparent fees
- Clear communication from start to finish
- Fast turnaround times
- Expert local knowledge
Contact us today for a remortgage conveyancing quote or to discuss your requirements with a solicitor.