Who this is for: Homeowners on a fixed rate ending between now and April 2027 who are up to date with their payments.
Mortgage Charter signatories allow eligible borrowers to lock in a new deal up to six months before the end of a fixed rate. The FCA's September 2026 data records 381,364 mortgages locked into a new deal up to six months ahead of maturity in the second quarter of 2026.
A full remortgage to a new lender and a product switch with an existing lender can have different timelines. Some existing-lender options open three to four months before the end date, while others may be available earlier. The lender's terms, whether you are borrowing more and your own circumstances will affect the route.
Mortgage Charter signatories also let eligible customers request a better like-for-like rate with the same lender until the new deal starts, if one is available. This does not guarantee that a cheaper rate will appear, but it means confirming a deal does not necessarily prevent a later like-for-like switch with that lender.
It is also sensible to check whether an early repayment charge applies before changing deal. A mortgage offer should show the relevant charge and fixed-rate end date. If a new deal starts after the current one ends, it can help avoid an early exit charge, but the lender or adviser can confirm the detail for the individual case.
Fixed-rate pricing can change over time. Moneyfacts data cited in September showed a difference between average standard variable rates and average two-year fixes, but actual payments vary by mortgage balance, term and lender.
