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Separate legal representation for mortgage lenders?

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Separate representation is when your mortgage lender uses a different conveyancing lawyer to the one who is acting for you. They will usually expect you to cover their legal fees which could run into hundreds of pounds on top of the fees you will pay for the conveyancing work your own solicitor is doing.

Most mortgage lenders will be happy to use the lawyer that you have appointed, making the process speedier and cheaper for everyone involved as they have a panel of approved law firms, especially if the firm is a member of the Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS). As long as you instruct a lawyer from an approved firm you will not need separate legal representation.

Helen Jones, Conveyancing Associate, says “The disadvantages of separate representation are that you will be required to pay two lots of fees and the involvement of a different lawyer could lead to delays. If you find that your lender insists on separate representation be aware of the potential problems this can cause.”

In August of this year, HSBC stated that to protect themselves against potential mortgage fraud all customers will need separate representation if they decide to use a solicitor other than one recommended by their panel.

Our team of conveyancing solicitors are all highly qualified and Frettens are members of the Conveyancing Quality Scheme so if your mortgage lender is HSBC you will not need separate representation.

For a free initial meeting please call 01202 499255 and Helen or a member of her team will be happy to discuss any questions you may have.

The content of this article, blog or video is not intended as specific legal advice. For tailored assistance, please contact a member of our team.

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