Key Takeaways
- Independent Legal Advice (ILA) is a legal requirement for many financial and property transactions in the UK, including personal guarantees, bridging loans, and mortgage arrangements.
- Lenders insist on an ILA certificate to ensure that all parties clearly understand the risks and obligations before signing binding documents.
- Failing to obtain ILA can lead to serious risks, such as your transaction being delayed, your loan not completing, or you facing personal liability without legal protection.
- The cost of ILA in the UK is typically a fixed fee, but prices can vary; Fast ILA provides transparent, fixed-fee independent legal advice starting from £120 + VAT with no hidden charges.
- Fast ILA’s service covers all major lender requirements and includes a solicitor-issued certificate, delivered remotely via a convenient video call.
- Remote ILA appointments from Fast ILA are often available the same day, making it easy to meet even urgent transaction deadlines.
- You benefit from clear pricing, full transparency on what is included, and a straightforward process designed to save time, stress, and unnecessary expense.
- Fast ILA is rated Excellent on Trustpilot with over 140 five-star reviews and a 4.9/5 rating from satisfied clients.
Ready to meet your ILA requirements quickly? Call 0207 459 4037 or use our online booking form to arrange your fixed-fee, remote Independent Legal Advice appointment.
How Much Does Independent Legal Advice Cost in the UK?
If you have been told by a lender or solicitor that you must obtain Independent Legal Advice (ILA) before signing a personal guarantee, mortgage, or loan document, you are not alone. ILA is a legal requirement for many financial and property transactions, designed to make sure you fully understand the commitments and risks involved. Without it, your deal could be delayed or even collapse.
Understanding the true cost of ILA in the UK is essential. Fees can vary widely and some solicitors may surprise you with hidden extras. Our fixed-fee approach at Fast ILA makes the process simple and stress-free, so you know exactly where you stand before you proceed.
The fee you pay includes your remote consultation with one of our SRA-regulated solicitors, thorough document and ID checks, and provision of your lender-accepted ILA certificate—without unexpected extras.
Why Do I Need Independent Legal Advice—and What Happens If I Don’t Get It?
ILA is not just a tick-box exercise. Lenders require it in situations where you are personally liable, such as for guarantees or property charges, because it protects both you and the lender. It ensures you understand the legal and financial risks, so your decision is fully informed and voluntary. This requirement is underpinned by the legal principles from cases such as RBS v Etridge.
If you do not obtain an ILA certificate, your lender will simply refuse to complete the transaction—whether it’s a loan, remortgage, or transfer of equity. This can lead to delays, failed deals, and unexpected costs.
During your Fast ILA appointment, your solicitor will:
- Review all relevant documents.
- Explain your obligations, including personal liability and consequences of default.
- Confirm your understanding and that you are acting of your own free will.
- Provide a signed ILA certificate or solicitor’s letter accepted by your lender.
Our process ensures that you can proceed confidently and without unnecessary risks.
What Is Included in a Fixed-Fee Independent Legal Advice Service?
Some solicitors quote a ‘fixed’ fee but then add unexpected charges for admin, ID checks, certificate handling, or even postage. With Fast ILA, the price you see covers every aspect of your ILA requirement.
Our all-inclusive ILA fee provides:
- Pre-appointment document review and secure ID verification using FastVerify.
- A live video call (generally 15–30 minutes) with an SRA-regulated solicitor.
- Clear, plain-English explanation of your documents, risks, and obligations.
- Confirmation of your understanding and advice on personal risks.
- Lender-accepted ILA certificate or solicitor’s letter sent electronically to you or your broker.
With everything included, you have full peace of mind—no hidden charges, no additional admin costs.
How Much Does Independent Legal Advice Cost in 2025? UK Price Guide & Typical Fees
ILA fees in the UK vary depending on the transaction and service provider. Knowing typical price ranges helps you avoid overpaying or missing crucial parts of the service.
Comparing ILA Fees for Different Transactions
| ILA Scenario | Typical UK Fee (2025) | Fast ILA Fee (from) |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Guarantee | £150–£350 + VAT | £120 + VAT |
| Bridging Loan ILA | £175–£400 + VAT | £120 + VAT |
| Joint Borrower, Sole Proprietor | £200–£350 + VAT | £120 + VAT |
| Equity Release | £295–£600 + VAT | £160 + VAT |
| Occupier’s Consent/Deed | £150–£275 + VAT | £120 + VAT |
| Transfer of Equity | £175–£350 + VAT | £120 + VAT |
Prices can differ due to complexity, urgency, or the number of parties and documents involved. Fast ILA ensures you always know your costs upfront, with no hidden extras.
Our fixed-fee quote covers all stages—there are no surprises when you choose our service.
What Factors Influence the Cost of ILA in the UK?
Several common factors determine ILA pricing:
Transaction Type and Complexity
Simple scenarios, such as a single individual acting as guarantor, are usually at the lower end of the price range. Transactions involving multiple parties, complex documents, or equity release arrangements often involve higher solicitor involvement and a slightly higher fixed fee.
Urgency and Out-of-Hours Service
Some solicitors charge extra for same-day or urgent appointments. Our priority service offers rapid appointments—including evenings and weekends—clearly priced before you commit.
Clients facing urgent deadlines benefit from our flexible, transparent approach with no surprise ‘rush’ surcharges.
The Step-by-Step Fast ILA Process: Booking to Online Certificate
Booking and completing your ILA with us is straightforward and efficient.
- Book Your ILA Appointment
- Use our online platform to select a convenient time, often with same-day availability.
- Upload Documents and ID Securely
- Easily send us your transaction documents and photo ID using FastVerify.
- Have Your Video Call with an SRA-Regulated Solicitor
- Our solicitor explains all document terms, answers your questions, and ensures you fully understand.
- Receive Your ILA Certificate
- Once satisfied, you receive your signed certificate or solicitor’s letter—typically on the same day.
Our streamlined process is built for your convenience—helping you meet deadlines and satisfy your lender without stress.
Common Pitfalls and Hidden Costs When Obtaining ILA—And How to Avoid Them
Many clients are caught out by seemingly cheap quotes that quickly rise due to undisclosed fees. Others encounter rejected certificates because the solicitor was not truly independent.
Typical Hidden Costs:
- Per-page document fees
- Extra charges for admin, scanning, or postage
- Additional costs for certificate issue or urgent service
With Fast ILA, your fee covers all essentials, from document checks to certificate delivery.
True Independence Matters
Your ILA solicitor must be independent of the lender, broker, and other parties, in line with SRA standards. This ensures your advisor is fully impartial and your ILA certificate is accepted.
Transparency and true independence guarantee you get valid ILA—without last-minute surprises.
Are Remote ILA Appointments Accepted by All UK Lenders?
The vast majority of UK lenders now accept ILA certificates provided via remote video call, so long as advice is given by an SRA-regulated solicitor following proper verification and security protocols. This means you can secure your ILA at home or work, saving time and hassle.
Our video-call process is accepted by high street banks and specialist lenders, with all certificates delivered electronically—no delays or extra postage costs.
The Fast ILA Advantage: Our Approach to Your Independent Legal Advice Needs
Selecting our service ensures:
- Transparent, fixed-fee ILA from £120 + VAT—no hidden extras
- Fully remote service accessible UK-wide via secure video call
- Only SRA-regulated solicitors, with lender-accepted certification
- Same-day and urgent slots for deadline-driven transactions
- Document upload and ID checks via FastVerify for peace of mind
- Over 140 five-star Trustpilot reviews and a reputation for reliability
If you want dependable, independent legal advice at a clear fixed fee, our team is ready to help—book online or call 0207 459 4037 for immediate assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions about ILA Fees and the Fast ILA Process
How quickly can I get an ILA certificate on a tight deadline?
We can often provide same-day appointments and issue your certificate within hours of document and ID upload.
Is remote ILA just as valid as in-person?
Yes. Provided your advice is given by an SRA-regulated solicitor and ID checks are complete, remote ILA is widely accepted by UK lenders.
Are fixed fees accepted by all lenders?
Yes. Our certificates and advice are accepted by all major high street and specialist lenders throughout England & Wales.
What documents should I prepare for my appointment?
Send us your main transaction document (e.g., guarantee, charge, consent form), any lender instructions, and a valid passport or driving licence.
Can I use the same solicitor as my lender?
No. Your independent legal advice must come from a solicitor with no connection to your lender, broker, or any other party involved.
Is the certificate included in your fee?
Yes. Our fixed fee covers all professional advice, admin, secure handling, and the issue of your ILA certificate.
Can I get ILA for more than one document?
Often, yes. If multiple related documents require advice, mention it when you book for a clear, tailored quote.
Will my solicitor advise if there are particularly risky clauses?
Absolutely. Our team highlights and explains any onerous or unusual terms, ensuring you fully understand your risks.
Does ILA for complex transactions cost more?
More complex cases such as equity release or company guarantees may attract a higher fixed fee, but you will always get a clear quote before proceeding.
Are your prices inclusive of VAT?
Our quotes clearly state if VAT is included or not. Unless shown otherwise, prices are exclusive of VAT.
For more information about different types of ILA, you can also read our general guide on What is Independent Legal Advice?
Get Your ILA Certificate Quickly and Easily with Fast ILA
Independent Legal Advice in the UK is more accessible and affordable than many believe when you choose a regulated, fixed-fee provider. With Fast ILA, you avoid hidden costs and delays, get your ILA remotely, and a certificate accepted by all major lenders. Our streamlined process works around your schedule—whether you need urgent ILA or want to book ahead.
Don’t let legal requirements delay your transaction. Call 0207 459 4037 or use our online booking form to arrange your fixed-fee, remote Independent Legal Advice appointment.
