Date published: 25th February 2026

For many homeowners, 2026 is a key year for remortgaging. Interest rates have shifted, financial priorities have changed, and the deals secured several years ago are now coming to an end.

While remortgaging is often seen as a purely financial decision, there are important legal considerations that can significantly affect your rights, responsibilities, and long‑term position.

Janet Jones, Head of Residential Property, explains why independent legal advice protects your interests at every stage of the remortgaging process.

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Why are so many people remortgaging in 2026?

Homeowners are remortgaging for a wide range of reasons, including:

Moving off fixed deals agreed during very different market conditions

  • Reducing monthly payments
  • Borrowing additional funds
  • Consolidating debt
  • Releasing equity for home improvements
  • Making changes to who owns or is responsible for the mortgage

Relationship changes, such as separation, divorce or new joint ownership, are also common reasons to review or restructure a mortgage.

Whatever the motivation, a remortgage is more than a financial transaction. It is also a legal process, and understanding the implications is key to protecting your interests.

Do I need a solicitor to remortgage?

In most cases, yes.

Lenders typically require a solicitor to handle the legal work before a remortgage can complete. Your solicitor will:

  • Check the property title
  • Ensure the lender’s requirements are met
  • Complete and register the legal documentation correctly
  • Coordinate with all parties to facilitate completion

Why independent legal advice matters

Some lenders offer remortgage packages with “free legal services.” While convenient, these solicitors usually act for the lender, not for you.

Choosing your own solicitor means you have an expert whose sole focus is protecting your position. Independent legal advice ensures:

  • You fully understand the mortgage terms
  • Any risks or long‑term implications are explained clearly
  • Changes to ownership or borrowing are handled correctly
  • Your personal interests, not the lender’s, come first

At Jackson Lees Group, we take the time to talk through what the remortgage means for you personally, not just what it means for the lender.

When is independent legal advice especially important?

While every remortgage benefits from proper legal support, it’s particularly crucial if you are:

  • Switching lenders
  • Borrowing additional funds
  • Adding or removing someone from the mortgage (Transfer of Equity)
  • Remortgaging following separation or divorce
  • Using your property as security for another arrangement
  • Restructuring ownership or beneficial interest

These situations can have long‑term financial consequences. Getting tailored legal advice early prevents misunderstandings, delays, and unexpected obligations later.

What documents will I need?

Although requirements vary, you will typically need:

  • Proof of identity
  • Your new mortgage offer
  • Details of your current mortgage
  • Property information
  • Any agreements affecting ownership

Gathering these early helps us progress your remortgage smoothly.

What should I do before I commit to a remortgage?

Before moving forward, it’s sensible to:

  • Speak to a solicitor to understand your options
  • Review the full mortgage terms, not just the rate
  • Consider how the arrangement fits your long‑term plans
  • Clarify any changes to property ownership

These early conversations do not commit you to anything; they simply give you the confidence to make an informed decision.

How Jackson Lees Group can support you

Remortgaging doesn’t need to be stressful. Our Residential Property team provides:

  • Clear, straightforward advice
  • A dedicated solicitor acting solely in your interests
  • Efficient handling of legal checks and registration
  • Support through equity release, transfers of equity and complex remortgage arrangements
  • A personal, empathetic service from start to finish

Whether you’re switching lenders, restructuring ownership, or simply renewing your deal, we’re here to guide you through every step with transparency and reassurance.

Planning to remortgage in 2026? We can help.

Start with a conversation.

Speak to our team today, request a callback, or send us an enquiry to find out how we can support your remortgage with confidence.