Vernon Building Society has partnered with Optimus to introduce a free legals service on selected remortgage products as it looks to strengthen its position in the growing remortgage market.

The initiative will be available to new remortgage customers on selected products, primarily across prime residential lending up to 80% loan-to-value and later life mortgages.

The Society said the move is intended to make its remortgage proposition more competitive, remove a common cost barrier for borrowers and support its wider lending growth ambitions.

Customers using the service could avoid solicitor costs typically associated with remortgaging, while brokers are expected to benefit from greater visibility of the Society’s products in remortgage sourcing searches.

Under the partnership, borrowers will have direct contact with their assigned solicitor, alongside support from Optimus’ dedicated team.

Optimus, part of Landmark Information Group, provides conveyancing panel management services alongside solicitor access and dedicated support teams.

Optimus will also manage the conveyancing panel on the Society’s behalf, overseeing due diligence, panel management and ongoing performance monitoring. Vernon Building Society said this would help maintain service standards while allowing it to focus on underwriting and broker support.

The launch comes as remortgage activity is expected to remain an important part of the mortgage market this year, with UK Finance forecasting a 10% increase in remortgaging volumes during 2026.

Brendan Crowshaw (pictured), head of mortgage and savings distribution at Vernon Building Society, said: “Partnering with Optimus will enable the Society to offer a free legals proposition for remortgages, giving brokers and their clients a more competitive and streamlined option at a time when remortgage demand remains a key part of the market.

“We wanted a solution that would enhance the customer journey and improve visibility with brokers.

“We’re confident our partnership with Optimus enables us to focus on what we do best – supporting members and brokers, and growing the Society.”

Lee Riche, commercial director at Optimus added: “We’re proud to support Vernon Building Society with a service built on consistent standards, relationships, and people.

“Our dedicated, experienced, and friendly approach will provide additional support for clients through their remortgage conveyancing. We look forward to helping more borrowers benefit from smoother transactions, faster completions, and customer-focused service.”