Generally these companies are either extensions of financial institutions like banks or they are independent companies providing not only mortgages but also secured and unsecured loans, remortgages and finance for general home improvements.
You should expect the same standards of service from these companies as you would from any traditional lender such as a bank. If you have any queries about either services or conduct of these companies you can contact a consumer organisation such as the Citizen's Advice Bureau or the Government's regulatory body the Financial Services Authority for more information.