A mistake on your credit report could lead to a mortgage offer having a higher interest rate or even mean your application is rejected. So, being aware of the common mistakes before you start searching for a mortgage could be valuable.

The likelihood of finding an error on your credit report might be higher than you expect. Indeed, a study from Which? suggests that almost 1 in 3 people who have checked their credit report in the last five years have found a mistake. 

When you apply to borrow money from a lender, including when you’re taking out a mortgage, they’ll often use your credit report to assess your application. As a result, overlooked mistakes could affect the outcome. 

Here are six common credit report mistakes you should be aware of.

1. Inaccurate personal details

When you access your credit report, spend some time reviewing your personal details, such as your date of birth and address.

8% of people surveyed by Which? found an error in this section of their credit report. In addition, 7% said the details belonged to someone else. 

An old address might seem like a small flaw in your report, but it could affect the outcome of your credit application. Stability is often viewed positively by lenders. So, being registered on the electoral roll at your current address for several years could be a green flag. In contrast, moving addresses frequently could harm your ability to secure credit. 

2. False debts

Your credit report will list debts that are held in your name. Be sure to review this section carefully as false debts could make your credit application seem unaffordable and lead to rejection. The Which? research found that almost 1 in 10 people found a record of a non-existent debt on their report.

Sometimes a false debt is a simple mistake. However, it could also be an indicator of identity theft.

If you spot a loan or other form of borrowing on your credit report, you should contact the provider, such as the bank, as soon as possible to let them know you have not opened an account. You can also use Action Fraud to report your case.

3. Duplication error

While you’re reviewing your debts, double-check that each loan, credit card, or other form of borrowing only appears once. Sometimes a duplication error can occur where an account appears several times, which could indicate you’ve borrowed more than you have.

4. Closed accounts showing as open

It may take up to 45 days for closed accounts to be updated on your credit report. If you spot an old account showing as open on your credit report after this time has passed, you should report it.

An open account could affect your application for a mortgage or other form of borrowing for a variety of reasons. For example, it might indicate you have access to more credit than you do, which could put off some lenders.

5. Mistakes in your payment history 

When assessing your application, lenders will review the likelihood of you missing repayments. So, the payment history section of your credit report is important.

If you spot a missed payment you weren’t aware of don’t panic. It might simply be a reporting error that can be resolved by contacting the credit reference agency. 

Missed payments don’t automatically mean you won’t be able to borrow money, including through a mortgage. However, depending on your circumstances, you might have to pay a higher interest rate or consider a specialist lender as a result. 

A missed payment will be removed from your credit report after six years. So, in some cases, waiting for it to be removed could make sense.

6. Linked persons 

Your credit report may be linked to that of people you share financial commitments with. For example, if you have a joint bank account with your partner or a shared utility account with a housemate. If you’re financially linked to someone, their credit score could affect yours.

Checking who you’re linked to and removing ex-partners or others you no longer share financial commitments with could help you better manage your credit score.

If you find a mistake you can raise a Notice of Correction 

It’s free to check your own credit report, though some providers may offer paid services too. Reviewing your report won’t affect your credit score. 

There are three main credit agencies in the UK – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. As they may contain different information, it might be a good idea to check all three reports before you submit a credit application. Go through each report to ensure the information is accurate and up to date.

If you spot a mistake, you can raise a Notice of Correction with the credit reference agency, which allows you to explain why the information is wrong and provide evidence if necessary.

In many cases, the issue can be resolved quickly. However, it’s not always straightforward. The Which? report noted that some people had to wait months and regularly contact the credit reference agency to correct errors. So, if you haven’t reviewed your credit report in a while, it might be a task you want to prioritise.

Contact us if you’ll be applying for a mortgage soon

Reviewing your credit report before you apply for a mortgage is just one step that could help you secure the right deal for you. As a mortgage adviser, we could offer you support and potentially save you money by accessing a lower interest rate by finding a mortgage that suits your needs. Please contact us to arrange a meeting.

Please note:

This blog is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other loans secured on it.

Approver Quilter Financial Services Limited & Quilter Mortgage Planning Limited. 10/12/2024