Medium Refurbishment Finance

Finance for more significant property works: structural alterations, extensions, loft conversions and change-of-use projects requiring planning or building regulations.

FCA Regulated
Extensive Lender Panel
Based in Uxbridge
UK Wide Coverage
24hr Response
5★ Reviews

Beyond Cosmetic: Structural Improvements

Medium refurbishment finance bridges the gap between light cosmetic works and full heavy refurbishment or development. It covers projects that involve structural alterations, extensions, loft conversions, basement conversions, change of use from commercial to residential, and works that require planning permission or building regulations sign-off. Funds are typically released in staged drawdowns as works are completed and inspected.

What Counts as Medium Refurbishment?

Internal structural alterations, removing or adding walls
Extensions (rear, side, loft)
Loft conversions and dormer additions
Basement conversions and underpinning
Change of use, e.g. commercial to residential (permitted development)
Converting a house into flats (subject to planning)
Significant electrical and plumbing overhaul
Works requiring building regulations approval

Get a Quote

Fast response, often within the hour for urgent cases.

Urgent? Call us on 0208 756 1 756 for same-day response

Key Criteria

• LTV: Up to 70–75% of current value, or a percentage of GDV

• Drawdowns: Staged releases against surveyor-verified completed works

• Term: 6 to 24 months

• Rates: From 0.65% per month

• Exit: Refinance to mortgage, sale, or further development finance

How the Process Works

1

Enquiry

Tell us about the deal: property, amount, timeline and exit strategy.

2

Terms & Costs

We source the best terms from our panel and provide a full cost breakdown.

3

Valuation & Legal

Valuation is instructed and solicitors prepare legal documentation.

4

Completion

Funds released, often within 5–14 working days from initial enquiry.

Risks & Considerations

  • • Bridging loans carry higher interest rates than standard mortgages. They are designed for short-term use only
  • • If your exit strategy fails (e.g. property doesn't sell), you may face penalty charges or the lender may seek repossession
  • • Arrangement fees, valuation fees and legal costs apply and should be factored into the total cost
  • • Interest is typically charged monthly, ensure you budget for ongoing costs during the loan term
  • • Some bridging loans are not regulated by the FCA, unregulated loans do not offer the same consumer protections

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

A bridging loan is secured against property. Your property may be at risk if you do not keep up repayments. Bridging finance is a short-term solution and should not be used as a long-term borrowing facility.

Chess Mortgages is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Some bridging loans are not regulated by the FCA.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are funds released for medium refurbishment?
Typically in staged drawdowns. The lender releases funds as works are completed and verified by an independent monitoring surveyor. The initial drawdown funds the purchase, with subsequent drawdowns funding the build programme.
Do I need planning permission?
It depends on the works. Some medium refurbishment projects fall under permitted development rights, while others require full planning permission. We work with lenders who accommodate both scenarios.
What's the difference between medium and heavy refurbishment?
Medium refurbishment involves structural works within an existing building (extensions, loft conversions, change of use). Heavy refurbishment typically involves major structural rebuilds, full conversions or works that significantly alter the building's footprint or structure.

Ready to Get Started?

Speak with one of our expert advisers today, initial consultation at our expense, and without obligation.