How Fast ILA Helped a Father Protect Himself While Supporting His Son’s Mortgage
A father contacted Fast ILA after agreeing to help his son purchase a home using a Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor (JBSP) mortgage from Metro Bank. The property was being bought in the son’s name only, but the father was being added to the mortgage to help pass affordability checks.
He had no intention of living in the property and would not be named on the title. Still, the lender required him to sign the mortgage deed—creating a binding, long-term liability.
That’s where Fast ILA stepped in.
What Is a JBSP Mortgage and Why Does It Require Legal Advice?
JBSP mortgages are increasingly used by parents or family members who want to help a loved one get onto the property ladder. They allow a non-owner to be added to the mortgage, purely to increase borrowing power.
But here’s what many don’t realise:
- You are not named on the property title
- You do not own the home
- You are still fully liable for the entire mortgage
- The lender can pursue you directly if repayments are missed
This creates a serious legal and financial risk for the non-owning borrower—especially if it’s unclear what rights they may or may not have later.
That’s why Metro Bank and other lenders require independent legal advice (ILA) for anyone entering a JBSP mortgage arrangement.
The Facts: £264,499 Liability, 17-Year Term, No Ownership
Our client was asked to co-sign a mortgage loan of £264,499 over a 17-year term. The interest rate was fixed at 5.29% for 5 years, followed by Metro Bank’s standard variable rate.
Although he wasn’t contributing to the deposit or living at the property, his name would appear on the mortgage documentation—and he’d be liable for every missed payment.
He had no legal claim to the property, no right to equity, and no protection if circumstances changed.
Fast ILA was instructed to ensure he fully understood what he was signing—and to certify the legal advice.
What We Did
- Reviewed the full mortgage offer and deed from Metro Bank
- Scheduled a same-day video call appointment
- Explained the JBSP structure and its financial implications
- Confirmed that he had no ownership interest or rights of occupation
- Clarified his joint and several liability under the mortgage terms
- Discussed how he could only be removed with lender consent or a refinance
- Verified identity and understanding
- Completed the lender’s ILA certificate the same day
The Outcome
- Legal advice delivered clearly and independently
- Certification accepted by Metro Bank without issue
- No delay to the mortgage or property purchase
- Client made an informed decision—with full understanding of the risks
- Fixed fee of £120 + VAT, no hidden costs
Why Fast ILA for JBSP and Non-Owning Borrower Advice?
Whether you’re a parent, friend, or relative helping someone buy a home, Fast ILA ensures you:
- Understand the legal effect of signing a mortgage without ownership
- Are aware of your liability, exposure, and exit options
- Receive advice from a qualified solicitor, with no conflicts of interest
- Get certified quickly, remotely, and affordably
We act for clients across the UK involved in JBSP arrangements with Metro Bank, Generation Home, Barclays, and others.
Book Your ILA Appointment Today
If you’ve been asked to sign a mortgage you won’t benefit from, it’s essential to get legal advice before you commit.
To book your ILA appointment, use the booking form on our website.
