Repairing a bad credit history

Experian can be found at http://www.experian.co.uk or you can write to: Experian Ltd, Consumer Help Service, PO Box 8000, Nottingham NG1 5GX. The phone number is 0870 241 6212.

Enclose a cheque or postal order for £2, made out to the appropriate company, plus your full name, date of birth and your addresses for the past six years. You should hear within seven days.

What do I do if my files contain inaccuracies?
Notify the credit agency as soon as possible, enclosing any proof you may have to back your case. If the lender admits it is in the wrong, the entry will be corrected or removed. If the lender disagrees, and provides sufficient proof, the information will stay on file. But you can still write a 'notice of correction', which will be added to your file.

My files are overflowing with CCJs (County Court Judgements) and bad payment records. Am I stuck with a bad credit history for life?
Not necessarily. It may take a while, but it's possible to rebuild your credibility with lenders. CCJs that are paid off within 28 days will not appear on your file. If you've paid up, but after the magic 28 days, the CCJ will appear on your file, but so will the fact that you've paid. CCJs are removed from your file after six years.

If you're being unfairly penalised for the sins of a partner, parent or sibling who shares your address, write in and say so. If you have a joint account or other shared financial arrangements, this solution isn't open to you.

If your relationship breaks down, tell the agencies immediately, so they can remove your ex-partner's name from your file.