Independent legal advice for equity release
Before taking out an equity release plan, such as a lifetime mortgage, you will need advice from a solicitor. They explain how the plan works, what it means for your estate and anyone who lives with you, and sign the certificate the provider needs.
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- Video, or in person in London
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- ★ 4.9 · 282 Google reviews
- 70+ lenders
- SRA-regulated solicitors
- Video, or in person in London
What is equity release?
Equity release lets homeowners, usually aged 55 or over, release money from their home without moving out. The most common type is a lifetime mortgage, where interest is usually added to the loan and repaid, with the amount borrowed, when the home is sold, often after death or a move into long-term care.
Because interest can compound over many years, the amount owed can grow significantly, which reduces what is left for your family.
Why do I need independent legal advice for equity release?
Providers who are members of the Equity Release Council must make sure customers receive independent legal advice before the plan completes. Your solicitor confirms that the plan has been explained and that you are entering into it freely, and anyone else aged 18 or over living in the home may be asked to sign a consent form.
What your solicitor will explain
How the debt grows
How interest builds up and what the balance could be in future.
Your estate
The effect on inheritance and on anyone who lives with you.
Safeguards
Protections such as the no negative equity guarantee and your right to remain in your home.
Costs and changes
Early repayment charges, moving home and the effect on means-tested benefits.
Completion deadline close? Same-day appointments available.
Documents you'll need
- The equity release offer and illustration
- The provider's legal documents and certificate
- Details of anyone else living in the property
- 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 provider
Your signed certificate and documents are returned to the provider's solicitors.
Frequently asked questions
Do other people in my home need to sign anything?
Usually, yes. Adults living in the property who are not taking out the plan are normally asked to sign a consent form agreeing the provider's rights come first. They may need advice too.
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 my family be involved?
Family members are often welcome to attend, but your solicitor will also need to speak to you on your own to make sure the decision is yours.
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.
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
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