Independent legal advice for bridging and development finance
Bridging and development lenders often require guarantors, third-party chargors and sometimes borrowers to take independent legal advice before completion. Our solicitors explain the risks clearly and quickly, and sign the ILA certificate so your completion stays on track.
- ★ 4.9 · 282 Google reviews
- 70+ lenders
- SRA-regulated solicitors
- Video, or in person in London
Live availability
Free 10-minute consultation
ILA from £140 + VAT per person · fee confirmed on the call
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- ★ 4.9 · 282 Google reviews
- 70+ lenders
- SRA-regulated solicitors
- Video, or in person in London
What is bridging and development finance?
Bridging finance is short-term borrowing secured on property, often used to buy before selling, buy at auction, or refurbish. Development finance funds building or conversion projects, usually released in stages.
These loans often carry higher interest rates and fees, short terms and a fixed exit plan. Lenders commonly take personal guarantees from directors and charges over other property as additional security.
Why does my lender require independent legal advice?
Because bridging and development loans move quickly and carry high stakes, lenders want to be sure that guarantors and anyone offering security understand what they are signing. Most therefore require independent legal advice for guarantors and third-party chargors, and some for borrowers too, with a solicitor’s certificate before funds are released.
What your solicitor will explain
Cost of the loan
Interest, fees and default interest, and how they can add up.
Your exit
What happens if the sale or refinance takes longer than planned.
Guarantees and security
Your personal liability and which properties are at risk.
Default
The lender's powers if the loan isn't repaid on time.
Bridging completion this week? Same-day appointments available.
Documents you'll need
- The facility letter and loan agreement
- Any guarantee or legal charge you are signing
- Your lender's ILA certificate template, if it has one
- Photo ID (passport or driving licence)
- Proof of address dated within the last three months
How it works
- 1
Book a free consultation
Pick a time above. It takes under a minute.
- 2
Speak to your solicitor
An SRA-regulated solicitor explains the risks in plain English, by video or in person in London.
- 3
Certificate sent to your lender
Your signed ILA certificate and documents are dispatched, usually the same day.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get the advice online?
Yes. Most lenders accept advice given by video call, so you can usually be advised from home. If your lender insists on a face-to-face meeting, that can be arranged in London instead.
Is there an ILA solicitor near me?
You don't need one nearby. Our SRA-regulated solicitors advise by video call wherever you are in England and Wales, often the same day, and video advice is accepted in most cases. If you need to meet face to face, appointments are available at the solicitor's office in London.
Can you meet tight bridging deadlines?
Yes. Same-day appointments are often available, and certificates are usually sent the same day once you have been advised.
Who needs independent advice?
Usually guarantors and anyone whose property is used as security. Your lender's instructions will say, and we can check them on your free consultation.
How much does it cost?
Independent legal advice starts from {price} per person. Your solicitor confirms the fixed fee on your free consultation, before any work starts.
Reviewed by Saba Rehman, Solicitor
SRA-regulated · Last reviewed 9 October 2026