Is regulated bridging slower than unregulated?

Slightly. Regulated loans require additional consumer checks and a reflection period. However, completion in 2–3 weeks is still common for straightforward cases.

What protections do I get with regulated bridging?

FCA regulation means the lender must conduct affordability assessments, provide clear documentation, offer a reflection period, and follow conduct rules designed to protect consumers.

Can I get regulated bridging with bad credit?

Yes, though the range of lenders is slightly narrower than for unregulated bridging. We have access to specialist regulated bridging lenders who consider adverse credit.

Regulated Bridging Loans | FCA Protected

When Is Bridging Regulated?

A bridging loan is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) when the security property is or will be occupied by you or a close family member. Regulated bridging loans carry additional consumer protections — including affordability assessments, cooling-off periods and conduct requirements. At Chess Mortgages, we're fully authorised and experienced in arranging regulated bridging finance.

When Regulated Bridging Applies

Purchasing a new home before selling your current one (chain break)

Buying an auction property you or your family will live in

Funding refurbishment of your own home (e.g. to make it habitable)

Divorce settlement — buying out a spouse's share of the family home

Downsizing — bridging the gap between buying and selling

Temporary finance while arranging a standard residential mortgage

Get a Quote

Fast response — often within the hour for urgent cases.

Regulated vs Unregulated

RegulatedUnregulated

OccupancyYou / family live in itInvestment / commercial

FCA protectionsYesNo

Cooling-off periodYesNo

SpeedSlightly longerFaster

FlexibilityMore regulatedMore flexible

How the Process Works

Enquiry

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

Terms & Costs

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

Valuation & Legal

Valuation is instructed and solicitors prepare legal documentation.

Completion

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

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

Regulated bridging loans are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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

Regulated Bridging Loans

When Is Bridging Regulated?

When Regulated Bridging Applies

Get a Quote

Regulated vs Unregulated

How the Process Works

Enquiry

Terms & Costs

Valuation & Legal

Completion

Related Services

Unregulated Bridging

Residential Bridging

First Time Buyers

Frequently Asked Questions

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