Arranging finance for a commercial property can be a significant step in an investment, business or development project. It may be needed to secure new premises, restructure existing borrowing, release capital or support a wider commercial opportunity. Whatever the reason, the legal work must be handled with care, speed and technical precision.

At Farnworth Rose, our experienced Commercial Property Finance Solicitors provide clear, commercially focused advice to both borrowers and lenders. We understand that property finance is rarely just about the loan. It is about protecting the lender’s position, helping the borrower understand their obligations and ensuring the transaction supports the commercial outcome you want to achieve.

Our team advises on the legal work behind commercial mortgages, secured lending, refinancing, bridging finance and development finance. This includes reviewing and preparing the documents that protect the lender’s position and define the borrower’s obligations, such as legal charges, debentures, personal guarantees and certificates of title.

With over 100 years of combined experience in commercial property matters, Farnworth Rose is recognised across Lancashire, Manchester and the North West for delivering practical legal advice with exceptional client care. We take time to understand your objectives, explain the legal process clearly and identify potential issues before they become costly delays.

To speak with one of our specialists, call us today on 01282 695 400 or complete the form below.

What it’s like working with Farnworth Rose

When you instruct Farnworth Rose for commercial property finance advice, you work with a dedicated file owner who takes responsibility for driving your matter forward. You will have direct access to someone who understands your transaction, keeps you updated and knows what needs to happen before funds can be released.

Your matter will be handled by our specialist Commercial Property team, which is partner-led by Richard Farnworth. With over 100 years of combined experience, the team advises on commercial mortgages, secured lending, refinancing, bridging finance and development finance, bringing the technical knowledge needed to protect your position and keep the transaction moving.

We provide clear pricing information before work begins. Wherever possible, we will give you an initial fee indication early in the process, followed by written confirmation before we are instructed. If additional work is needed because of title defects, lender conditions, company authority issues, urgent deadlines or changes to the finance structure, we will explain this clearly before proceeding.

A significant part of the value we add is in pre-emptive risk spotting. We will look carefully at matters such as title restrictions, rights of access, existing charges, leasehold consent, occupational arrangements, personal guarantees, debentures, deeds of priority, Companies House requirements and HM Land Registry registration. We explain these issues in clear terms and focus on practical solutions that keep the transaction moving.

Since 2020, the team has handled more than £50 million in commercial property transaction value, and over 1,000 commercial clients have chosen Farnworth Rose three or more times. That trust matters to us. Whether you are a borrower seeking funding or a lender looking to protect your security, our focus is on making the legal process clear, efficient and properly managed from the outset.

Meet the Team

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Hazel Leonard

Rebecca Bruce

Nina Barlow

Richard Farnworth

How Can Our Commercial Property Finance Solicitors Help?

Our Commercial Property Finance Solicitors can support you through every stage of the transaction, from initial lender instructions through to completion and post-completion registration.

Here are the different areas of commercial property finance we can help you with:

+ Acting for Borrowers

Borrowing against commercial property can help you move forward with a purchase, refinance existing borrowing or release capital for your next commercial step. We advise on the legal effect of the finance documents, including repayment obligations, financial covenants, personal guarantees and lender consent requirements. We will explain the practical impact of these documents in clear, straightforward terms, helping you understand how they may affect your business and your property. Our aim is to protect your position while helping you access the funding you need on terms that support your wider plans.

+ Acting for Lenders and Private Funders

For lenders and private funders, the strength of the lending position is critical. Before funds are advanced, you need confidence that the property is legally sound, that the title is marketable and that the supporting documents are properly prepared. We assist with due diligence, legal charges, debentures, personal guarantees, certificates of title and lender reporting. Our team will assess the title, review searches, consider any occupational arrangements and identify issues that could affect the value or enforceability of the security.

+ Commercial Mortgages and Secured Lending

A commercial mortgage is usually secured by a legal charge over commercial property. This gives the lender security if the borrower defaults and may be supported by additional documents, such as a debenture, personal guarantee or, in group company structures, an inter-group charge. These documents should never be treated as routine. They can restrict how property or business assets are used and may create personal liability for directors or shareholders. We will explain the purpose and effect of each document so you can make informed decisions before completion.

+ Commercial Property Refinancing

Refinancing commercial property can help you restructure existing borrowing, secure more favourable terms or release equity from a property portfolio. Although it may seem more straightforward than a purchase, the legal work still needs careful attention. A new lender will usually require updated title checks, searches, lease information, insurance evidence and confirmation that the property remains suitable for the proposed borrowing. We will manage the legal process from start to finish, liaising with your existing lender, new lender, broker and accountant where needed.

+ Bridging Finance

Bridging finance is often used where funds are needed quickly. It can help with an urgent acquisition, an auction purchase, a short-term business need or a temporary funding gap while longer-term finance is arranged. Because these arrangements are usually time-sensitive, the legal work must be handled with both speed and accuracy. We can assist with title review, lender enquiries, legal charges, guarantees and completion requirements, always keeping the deadline firmly in mind.

+ Development Finance

Development finance is commonly used to support the purchase, construction or refurbishment of commercial land or property. Funding is often released in stages, with each drawdown linked to specific conditions being satisfied. Lenders may need to review the planning position, title restrictions, access arrangements, infrastructure issues, building contracts, professional appointments and insurance. Our team can assist with the finance aspects of development projects, ensuring that the funding structure, drawdown conditions and lender expectations are clearly understood.

+ Reports on Title and Certificates of Title

Before releasing funds, many lenders require a report on title or certificate of title. Our solicitors can prepare, review and negotiate these documents, confirming whether the property is suitable security for the loan and highlighting any issues that need to be addressed before completion. The report may address ownership, restrictions, rights of way, covenants, leases, planning matters, searches, environmental issues, insurance, access and services. For lenders, it provides important assurance before funds are advanced. For borrowers, it can help identify and resolve title issues that might otherwise delay completion or affect future saleability.

Why Use a Solicitor For Commercial Property Finance?

From a legal perspective, the key issue is security. A lender will want confidence that the property offers reliable protection if the borrower fails to repay the loan. This means the title, searches, occupational arrangements and finance documents all need to be reviewed carefully.

For borrowers, the process is equally important. Loan documents, legal charges, debentures and personal guarantees can create significant obligations. They may affect how you use the property, whether you can grant leases, make alterations, sell part of the site or refinance in the future.

Good legal advice should not slow the transaction down. It should give all parties clarity, reduce uncertainty and help the finance complete on a sound legal footing.

Why Early Legal Advice Matters

In commercial property finance, early legal advice can save time, reduce cost and prevent avoidable problems. Delays often arise because key documents are missing, authority has not been properly approved, title issues have not been resolved or lender requirements are considered too late.

Involving a solicitor early allows the legal work to be organised before deadlines become urgent. This is particularly important where finance is linked to a purchase, auction deadline, refinancing date or development timetable.

At Farnworth Rose, we are proactive from the outset. We keep the transaction moving, communicate clearly and focus on delivering the outcome you need.

Frequently Asked Questions for Commercial Property Finance

+ What is commercial property finance?

Commercial property finance is funding secured against commercial property or land. It may be used to buy premises, refinance an existing asset, fund development works or release equity for wider business purposes.

+ What does a commercial property finance solicitor do?

A commercial property finance solicitor deals with the legal work required when money is borrowed or lent against commercial property. This includes reviewing the title, advising on finance documents, dealing with funding conditions, completing the transaction and registering the lender’s interest.

+ What documents are usually needed for commercial property finance?

The documents required will depend on the lender and the structure of the transaction. They commonly include a facility letter, loan agreement, legal charge, debenture, personal guarantee, board minutes, title documents and, where required, a report or certificate of title.

+ How long does commercial property refinancing take?

The timescale depends on the complexity of the title, the lender’s requirements and how quickly all parties provide information. We will give you a realistic timescale at the outset and keep you updated throughout the process.

+ Do I need a solicitor for a commercial mortgage?

Yes. A commercial mortgage gives the lender legal rights over the property, and the lender will usually require a solicitor to review the title, advise on the documents, satisfy completion conditions and register the security. A solicitor also helps you understand your obligations before you commit.

+ What are the key legal risks in commercial property finance?

Key legal risks can include title defects, missing rights of access, restrictive covenants, planning issues, environmental concerns, undocumented occupation and lease arrangements that affect rental income or lender security. Finance documents may also restrict further borrowing, alterations, disposals or leasing, so it is important to understand these obligations before completion. Our solicitors will identify potential risks early, explain them clearly and help find practical solutions to keep the transaction moving forward.

Testimonials

“I have now used Mr Richard Farnworth and his team a few times for various purchases and leases. Each time they have been very efficient, responsive and professional. I would have no hesitation recommending them.”

Contact Our Commercial Property Solicitors

Navigating commercial property finance can be challenging, but Farnworth Rose is here to guide you with expertise and empathy.

Our commercial property solicitors in Lancashire are based in Nelson on the Lomeshave Business Estate, near Burnley. We are committed to providing exceptional levels of client care and will work closely, considerately and strategically with you to help you find the best solutions to whatever challenges you face or whatever opportunity you want to explore.

Our record of achievement and depth of experience make us the leading commercial property finance solicitors in Lancashire. We regularly help clients with commercial property finance matters in Preston, Manchester, Blackburn, Rochdale and Bolton, as well as across the Pennines in Bradford, Huddersfield, Skipton, Keighley and beyond.

In truth, we work wherever our clients have property or land that needs legal advice, which means we work nationwide.

If you’d like to talk to one of our specialist commercial property solicitors at Farnworth Rose, you can call us now on 01282 695 400 or complete the form below, and we’ll be in touch.