Remortgaging in Kent
Remortgage Conveyancing in Kent
Remortgage conveyancing is the legal work needed when you switch lender or borrow more against your home. The legal work usually takes 2 to 4 weeks once your solicitor is instructed. They check the title, pay off your old mortgage and register the new one with HM Land Registry.
- SRA or CLC-regulated firms only
- Fixed fees, with no-sale-no-fee options
- Free to use, no obligation
Remortgaging at a glance
What’s involved
What does remortgage conveyancing involve?
When you remortgage with a new lender, a solicitor acts for that lender, and usually for you too. They will:
- Check your title with HM Land Registry
- Carry out searches or arrange search insurance
- Report to your new lender and confirm their conditions are met
- Pay off your existing mortgage on completion
- Register the new mortgage and remove the old one
If you are also adding or removing someone from the title, the same solicitor can deal with the transfer of equity at the same time.
Step by step
The remortgage process, step by step
Most remortgages follow these six stages.
- 1
Apply to your new lender
Your broker or lender issues the mortgage offer and instructs a solicitor.
- 2
Instruct your solicitor
You confirm your details and complete ID checks.
- 3
Title checks and searches
Your solicitor checks the title and orders searches or search insurance.
- 4
Redemption figure
Your solicitor gets the amount needed to clear your current mortgage.
- 5
Sign the mortgage deed
You sign the new mortgage, and a completion date is agreed with the lender.
- 6
Completion and registration
The new lender releases the funds, the old mortgage is paid off, and the change is registered.
Timeline
How long does a remortgage take?
The legal work usually takes 2 to 4 weeks once instructed. Start about three months before your current deal ends to allow for the lender’s side.
- Apply
- Instruct
- Title checks
- Redemption
- Sign
- Complete
Costs
What remortgage conveyancing costs
Remortgage fees are generally lower than buying or selling because the legal work is more limited. Some lenders include free legal work; using your own solicitor gives you more control and a named contact.
| Cost | Typical amount | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| Legal fee | Confirmed in your quote | The solicitor’s own work |
| Search indemnity or searches | Varies | Many lenders accept insurance |
| Land Registry fee | Small scale fee | Registering the new mortgage |
| ID checks | £10–£25 | Per borrower |
| Bank transfer fee | £20–£50 | Paying off your old lender |
Local knowledge
Remortgaging in Kent: what can slow it down
A few local issues can add time if they are not spotted early.
Short leases
Many Kent flats have leases that lenders are cautious about. Check your lease length before you apply.
Missing building consents
Extensions or loft conversions without sign-off can hold up the lender’s approval.
Flood risk
Some lenders ask more questions about homes in coastal flood zones.
Adding or removing a person
A transfer of equity alongside the remortgage needs everyone’s consent and ID.
Early repayment charges
Time your switch to avoid charges on your current deal.
Lender timescales
Offers expire, so keep your paperwork moving.
Avoiding delays
Common delays and how to avoid them
Most hold-ups are avoidable with a little preparation.
Be prepared
Documents you’ll need
Have these ready when you instruct your solicitor.
- Photo ID and proof of address
- Your new mortgage offer
- Your current lender and account number
- Details of anyone else on the title
- Your lease (if leasehold)
- Planning or building regulations paperwork
- Your bank details for any surplus funds
- Your broker’s contact details
Related services
Related services
Remortgaging in a Kent town
CanterburyHerne BayWhitstableMargateRamsgateAshfordFolkestoneDoverDealBroadstairsFavershamAll Kent towns →
Do I need a solicitor to remortgage?
If you switch to a new lender, yes: a solicitor must act for the new lender. If you stay with your current lender on a new product, you usually don’t need one.
How long does remortgage conveyancing take?
Usually 2 to 4 weeks once your solicitor is instructed. Starting about three months before your current deal ends gives the lender time too.
Can I release equity when I remortgage?
Yes. Borrowing more against your home is a common reason to remortgage. The legal process is the same; your lender decides how much you can borrow.
Do I need conveyancing if I stay with the same lender?
Usually not. A product transfer with your existing lender doesn’t normally need a solicitor, unless you are also changing who owns the home.
Can I use my lender’s free legal service?
Yes, many lenders offer one. Some people prefer to choose their own firm, particularly if they are also adding or removing someone from the title.
Do I need searches for a remortgage?
Often not. Many lenders accept search indemnity insurance instead, which is quicker and cheaper.
Can I add my partner to the title when I remortgage?
Yes. This is a transfer of equity, and it can be done at the same time. See transfer of equity.
Official guidance on remortgage conveyancing: HM Land Registry · MoneyHelper home buying guides · SRA register of solicitors
Fees and timescales checked for Kent · Last updated September 2026
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