Borrowing & credit · 6 min read
What to check on your credit reports before a mortgage application
A credit report is most useful as a factual record to review before an application, not as a score to obsess over. Different lenders use their own systems, so focus on information you can verify, explain or correct.
Check identity and address history
Make sure your name and addresses are accurate and that old or duplicate information is not creating confusion. Consistent address information across the application and evidence reduces avoidable questions.
Review every account
Look for accounts you do not recognise, incorrect balances, unexpected missed-payment markers and closed accounts that appear wrong. Raise genuine errors with the relevant organisation or credit-reference agency rather than hoping an underwriter ignores them.
Look at recent credit activity
Recent applications, newly opened borrowing and high revolving-credit usage can all add context to the application. Do not make extra applications simply to test what you might be accepted for.
Prepare explanations, not excuses
If there is genuine adverse credit, record what happened, when it happened, the amount and the current status. A clear timeline is more useful for a specialist review than a vague statement that the credit score is low.
More in Borrowing & credit
Full guidance library →5 min read
Before taking new credit, map the debt you already have
A simple debt-review framework covering balances, rates, repayments, end dates and monthly pressure before another application.
Read next →7 min read
Debt consolidation: what to compare before securing debt against your home
Compare payment, term, total cost and security risk before replacing unsecured debts with longer-term property-backed borrowing.
Read next →