Second Charge Bridging Loans

Edited: January 2026

When you need additional capital but remortgaging would be slow, expensive or impractical, a second charge bridging loan can be an effective solution.

Second charge bridging allows you to raise short term finance against a property that already has a mortgage in place. As a result, you keep your existing mortgage and avoid early repayment charges. In addition, you can access funds quickly when timing matters.

Second charge bridging is a type of bridging finance used by property investors, landlords and developers across the UK. For example, many borrowers use it when further advances are not available or when speed is essential.

What Is a Second Charge Bridging Loan?

A second charge bridging loan secures against a property that already has a mortgage. However, the existing lender stays in first charge position. Then the bridging lender takes second charge behind them.

The loan runs short term and follows a clear exit, usually a refinance or sale. Because of that, lenders focus on the property value, total exposure and exit strategy rather than standard affordability checks.

Why Use a Second Charge Bridging Loan?

Second charge bridging is commonly used when:
• You want to release equity without replacing an existing low rate mortgage
• You are tied into a fixed rate and want to avoid early repayment charges
• Further advances are no longer available
• You need funding quickly for a property project
• Remortgaging would increase cost or delay the deal

Overall, it suits borrowers who need speed and flexibility while keeping their main lending intact. For more short term finance options, see our Bridging Loans page