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Low credit score mortgages

Low Credit Score Mortgage

How lenders assess applications with lower credit scores and what affects your options
How lenders assess scores Score bands explained Adverse credit lenders Score vs history
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Information only. Not a personal recommendation.

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct AuthorityFirm reference number 762513. Verify on the Financial Services Register.
Mortgage advice from across the whole marketWe offer mortgage advice from across the whole market. This means we consider a comprehensive range of mortgages available across the market, although not all lenders operate through intermediaries. We will receive commission from the lender if you proceed.
No fee for the initial consultationNo fee for the initial consultation. A £299 fee is payable on receipt of a formal mortgage offer (non-refundable once issued, whether or not the mortgage completes).
Based in Halifax, West YorkshireWe provide regulated mortgage advice across the UK by phone and video call.

A low credit score does not automatically prevent you from getting a mortgage, but it does affect which lenders will consider your application and on what terms. If your credit has changed since your original mortgage and you are approaching a rate renewal, this guide covers remortgaging with a low credit score too. The important distinction is between a low score caused by a thin credit file or limited history, and a low score caused by adverse credit events such as missed payments, defaults, or CCJs. Lenders assess both differently, and the right approach depends on what is actually behind the score rather than the number itself.

What credit score do I need for a mortgage? There is no single universal credit score required for a mortgage. Each lender sets its own thresholds, and what one lender declines another may consider. As a general guide, mainstream lenders typically prefer scores in the good to excellent range on their respective agency's scale. Specialist and adverse credit lenders may consider applications with lower scores, provided the underlying credit history supports the lending. Credit scores are a screening tool, not the final decision. Most mortgage lenders look at the detailed credit history behind the score, not just the number. What actually affects mortgage availability is the nature of any adverse entries, how old they are, whether they have been satisfied, the deposit size, and the overall application strength. Eligibility depends on individual circumstances and lender criteria at the time of application. In some cases, no mortgage may be available, particularly where credit issues are recent or severe.
What is the minimum credit score for a mortgage in the UK? There is no official minimum credit score for a mortgage in the UK. Lenders do not publish fixed minimum thresholds, and the score required varies between lenders and depends on the type of mortgage. Credit scores also vary between the three main UK credit reference agencies (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion), which each use different scales. A score that looks fair on one agency may look good on another. Rather than focusing on a single minimum figure, it is more useful to understand what is behind your score. A score suppressed by a thin credit file is assessed differently from one suppressed by missed payments or a CCJ. A specialist lender may consider an application that a mainstream lender declines. Individual circumstances, deposit size, and the nature of any credit issues all affect what may be available.
Can I get a mortgage with a fair credit score? In many cases, a mortgage may be possible with a fair credit score, although this is not guaranteed and depends on individual circumstances. A fair credit score does not automatically mean you are restricted to specialist lenders. Some mainstream lenders may still consider applications where the underlying credit history is clean and the score is in the fair band due to limited history or minor issues rather than significant adverse events. Others may require a specialist lender. The options available depend on what is driving the fair score, the deposit available, income, and the specific lender's criteria. A fair score caused by a short credit file is typically assessed more favourably than one caused by a recent missed payment.
Credit score bands
Excellent / Very Good

Mainstream lenders available. More competitive rates may be available. Full product range open. Standard deposit requirements typically apply.

Good

Mainstream lenders generally accessible. Minor score suppressions may not affect outcomes where underlying history is clean. More competitive rates may be available.

Fair

Some mainstream lenders may still consider applications where underlying history supports lending. Specialist lenders more commonly used. Deposit requirements may be higher.

Poor

Specialist adverse credit lenders typically required. Higher deposit commonly needed (15-25%). Rates reflect the additional risk assessed by the lender. Underlying history more important than the score.

Very Poor

Specialist lenders only. Larger deposits typically required. The nature, age, and severity of adverse entries determines which lenders may consider an application. Not all applications will be possible.

Thin file / Limited history

Low score from insufficient data rather than adverse events. Specialist lenders may consider alternative evidence. A substantial deposit can help. Building credit history may improve options over time.

What is a good credit score for a mortgage? A good credit score for a mortgage is generally one that sits in the good or excellent band on your credit agency's scale, though this varies between Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion as they each use different ranges. On Experian, a good score is typically 881-960 out of 999. On Equifax, a good score is around 420-465 out of 700. On TransUnion, a good score is around 604-627 out of 710. These are general guides only, as lenders apply their own assessments. A good score opens access to mainstream lenders and competitive rates, but the detailed credit history behind the score also matters. A clean history of on-time payments, low credit utilisation, and no recent adverse entries supports a stronger mortgage application regardless of the score band.
Why the number alone does not tell the full story

Credit Score vs Credit History

Most mortgage lenders do not make decisions on the score number alone. The detailed credit history behind the score is what they assess. A low score caused by a thin file or limited history is treated differently from a low score caused by a defaulted account or a CCJ.

Two applicants can have identical scores and very different mortgage outcomes. One may have a clean but limited history, the other a longer history with adverse entries. The lender will treat them completely differently.

This means that understanding what is actually driving your score is the most important step before applying. A broker who reviews your credit file before identifying lenders can reduce the risk of unnecessary declined applications and hard credit searches.

Experian, Equifax and TransUnion

Which Agency Does My Lender Use?

The three main UK credit reference agencies use different scales. Experian scores out of 999. Equifax scores out of 700. TransUnion scores out of 710. A score that looks fair on one agency can look different on another.

Different lenders use different agencies, and some use more than one. The score a lender sees may not be the score you checked. Your credit file contents - the actual entries - are broadly the same across agencies, but scoring algorithms differ.

Checking all three of your credit reports before applying gives a fuller picture. Free services such as Credit Karma (TransUnion), Clearscore (Equifax), and Experian's own free service allow you to check without affecting your score.

Mortgage adviser reviewing credit file with a client to assess low credit score mortgage options
A credit score is the number. A credit history is the story. Lenders care more about the story. Two people with the same score can have very different outcomes depending on what is actually in their file.

Already been declined? Before applying again, an adviser can review your credit file and identify which lenders may suit your specific profile, which may help reduce the likelihood of applying to unsuitable lenders.

Speak to an adviser first

Not sure how your score will affect your application? An adviser can review your credit file, identify what is driving the score, and identify lenders whose criteria may be more suitable for your situation, before any credit search is made. Any recommendation will only be made after a full assessment of your circumstances.

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Which specialist lenders consider applications with adverse credit? Some specialist lenders may consider applications with adverse credit, assessing credit issues individually, rather than applying automated score thresholds. They typically consider the nature, age, and satisfaction status of adverse entries, the overall credit file, and the deposit size, rather than declining automatically based on score. Building societies with manual underwriting processes have historically been active in this space, alongside specialist lenders focused on non-standard applications. The lenders available, and which are most suitable, depends on the specific type and severity of the credit issue, whether entries are satisfied, how long ago they occurred, the deposit available, income, and property type. A search across the range of lenders we have access to at the point of application gives the most accurate picture of which lenders are currently accepting applications for your specific circumstances. Lender appetite in this area changes regularly. Lenders who consider low credit score mortgage applications are the same specialist lenders who assess adverse credit histories individually rather than applying automated score thresholds. In some cases, no mortgage may be available depending on the severity and recency of credit issues.
What lenders look at

How lenders assess credit scores and history

The score is a filter, not a decisionMost lenders use credit scores to filter applications initially, then review the detailed credit history for those that pass. Some specialist lenders skip the score filter entirely and go straight to the file. Specialist lenders apply their own criteria and may still decline applications depending on circumstances.
Nature of adverse entriesA single missed payment is treated differently from a default, a CCJ, or a bankruptcy. Lenders categorise adverse events by severity and assess accordingly. The type matters more than the number on the score.
Age of adverse entriesOlder adverse entries carry less weight than recent ones. A default from four years ago is generally less significant than one from six months ago. Most adverse entries are removed from credit files after six years.
Satisfied vs unsatisfiedWhether debts linked to adverse entries have been repaid matters. A satisfied default or CCJ is viewed more positively than an unsatisfied one. Some lenders require satisfaction before considering an application.
Deposit sizeA larger deposit reduces lender risk and can open more options for applicants with lower scores. A 25% deposit generally gives more choice than 10% when credit history is imperfect.
Conduct since adverse eventsConsistent on-time payments on all credit commitments since any adverse events demonstrates recovery. Lenders look for a period of good conduct as evidence that past difficulties have been resolved.
The key insight on credit scores "A credit score tells a lender how a scoring algorithm views your file. The file itself tells them what actually happened. Most specialist lenders read the file, not just the score. This is why two people with the same score can have very different outcomes."
Can I remortgage with a low credit score? In many cases, remortgaging with a low credit score may be possible, although options depend on the severity of the credit issues, the equity in the property, and individual lender criteria. If you are approaching the end of a fixed rate deal and your credit score has deteriorated since your original mortgage, you may still have options. Specialist lenders who assess on the underlying history rather than score alone may consider remortgage applications. The equity position in your property is a significant factor, as higher equity reduces the loan-to-value ratio and may improve the options available. If you remain on your existing lender's standard variable rate rather than remortgaging, your current lender may not require a new credit check. An adviser can assess whether remortgaging with your current lender, switching product internally, or approaching a specialist lender is most appropriate for your specific circumstances.
Does a low credit score affect mortgage rates? A lower credit score can affect the mortgage rates available to you, though the relationship is not always direct. Mainstream lenders typically offer their most competitive rates to applicants with strong credit profiles. Specialist adverse credit lenders, who consider lower-score applications, generally charge higher rates than mainstream lenders to reflect the additional risk they are taking. However, rates vary considerably between specialist lenders and depend on the specific credit issues, deposit size, loan-to-value, and overall application strength. A low score caused by a thin file may attract less of a rate premium than a low score caused by recent defaults. Improving your credit position before applying, or increasing your deposit, can improve the rate options available. Any rate is indicative only before a formal application.

Discuss Your Low Credit Score Mortgage

No obligation to proceed. An adviser can review your credit file before any credit search is made. Advice provided after full assessment.

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Consumer Duty: Is this page right for you?

Who this information is intended for: People with a low, poor, or fair credit score who are exploring whether a mortgage may be available, or who want to understand how their score affects their options.

This information may be less suitable where: you have specific adverse credit events such as a CCJ, IVA, or bankruptcy, where dedicated guidance applies; or you have no credit history at all, where different lender approaches apply.

Foreseeable harm: Applying to the wrong lender with a low credit score can result in a declined application and an unnecessary hard credit search that may further suppress the score. Understanding your credit position before applying reduces this risk.

How we mitigate this: Our adviser process includes reviewing your credit file before identifying lenders, to reduce the risk of applications to lenders unlikely to consider your profile.

You should also consider: whether delaying your application to allow your credit profile to improve may result in better options. An adviser can give honest guidance on whether to proceed now or wait.

Support: If your credit difficulties relate to financial hardship or life events, additional support may be appropriate. Free independent guidance is available from MoneyHelper (www.moneyhelper.org.uk). If you are experiencing financial difficulty, you may also wish to seek free debt advice from StepChange (www.stepchange.org).

Customer reviews reflect individual experiences and may not be representative of all clients. They do not reflect the likelihood of obtaining a mortgage, do not guarantee similar outcomes, and do not constitute advice or a recommendation.

Illustrative scenarios

Low credit score mortgage examples

These examples illustrate how applications may be assessed and do not indicate likelihood of approval. Many similar applications may still be declined. They do not represent actual customer outcomes. Mortgage availability and terms depend on individual circumstances and lender criteria.

Scenario 1: Low score from thin file, first-time buyer

1Situation

A first-time buyer with a fair credit score caused by limited credit history rather than any adverse events. No missed payments, no defaults, but a short credit file with few accounts. Mainstream lenders flagging the score. Good stable employment and a 15% deposit available.

2Approach

The credit file was reviewed to confirm the score was driven by thin file rather than adverse entries. A lender comfortable with limited credit history applicants who use manual underwriting rather than automated scoring was identified. The clean payment record and stable employment were presented as evidence of creditworthiness.

3Possible outcome

In this scenario, a lender may have been willing to consider the application on the basis of the clean underlying history rather than the score alone. Individual circumstances, deposit level, and lender criteria at the time would affect actual outcomes.

Scenario 2: Low score from historical adverse credit

1Situation

A borrower with a very poor credit score caused by two satisfied defaults from three years ago, both now satisfied. Perfect payment conduct for the last two and a half years since the defaults. Stable employment, 25% deposit. Score still low due to the age of the defaults.

2Approach

A specialist adverse credit lender who assessed the underlying history rather than applying a score threshold was identified. The satisfaction of both defaults, the age of the entries, and the sustained recovery period were presented as key factors. The 25% deposit supported the application considerably.

3Possible outcome

In this scenario, a specialist lender may have considered the application on the basis of the satisfied defaults, time elapsed, and strong recovery conduct. Actual outcomes depend on individual circumstances, the lender's appetite at the time, and full credit and affordability assessment.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions: low credit score mortgages

In some cases it may be possible to get a mortgage with a low credit score, although this is not guaranteed and depends on individual circumstances. What matters most is what is driving the low score. A thin file or limited history is assessed differently from a score suppressed by defaults or CCJs. Specialist lenders may consider lower-score applications where the underlying history supports the lending. The deposit size, income, and nature of any adverse entries all affect which lenders may consider an application.

Steps that may help improve a credit score include registering on the electoral roll, checking your credit file for errors and disputing any inaccuracies, reducing credit card utilisation, avoiding new credit applications in the months before applying, and maintaining consistent on-time payments across all accounts. The time it takes to see improvement depends on what is behind the current score. Improvements from correcting errors can be faster. Improvements from waiting for adverse entries to age or be removed take longer. An adviser can help assess whether waiting to improve your score or proceeding now gives better overall options for your situation.

Checking your own credit score creates a soft search, which is invisible to lenders and has no effect on your credit file. You can check your score and your full credit report as often as you like without any impact. Hard searches, which do leave a mark and can affect a score, are created when a lender carries out a full credit check as part of a formal application. Multiple hard searches in a short period can suppress a score. Checking before applying helps you understand your position without any risk.

Different lenders use different credit reference agencies. Some use Experian, some use Equifax, some use TransUnion, and some use more than one. There is no universal standard. Because each agency uses a different scoring scale, your score will look different across the three. The underlying credit file contents are broadly similar across agencies, but the scoring algorithms differ. Checking all three reports before applying gives the fullest picture of your credit position. Free services include Credit Karma for TransUnion, Clearscore for Equifax, and Experian's free service.

A mortgage may be possible with no or limited UK credit history, though mainstream lenders can find thin files difficult to assess. Some specialist lenders are comfortable with limited credit history applicants and may accept alternative evidence of financial reliability. A larger deposit helps considerably in these cases. Building a credit file through responsible use of a credit card or other credit product in the period before applying can improve options. Eligibility depends on individual circumstances and lender criteria.

A lower credit score can affect the rates available. Mainstream lenders typically offer their best rates to applicants with strong credit profiles. Specialist lenders who consider lower-score applications generally charge higher rates. The extent of any premium depends on the specific credit issues, how recent they are, the deposit size, and the lender's current appetite. A score suppressed by a thin file may attract less of a rate premium than one suppressed by recent adverse entries. Any rate you see before a formal application is indicative only and subject to full credit and affordability assessment.

Whether to wait depends on the realistic improvement timeline and your individual circumstances. If the score is low due to easily correctable errors, fixing these quickly can improve options without much delay. If it is low due to adverse entries that need to age, the timeline may be months or years. In some cases, specialist lenders may be able to help now at rates that are higher than standard, but which may be refinanced when the credit position improves. An adviser can assess your specific situation and give honest guidance on whether proceeding now or waiting makes more sense for you.

Related adverse credit guides

Bad Credit MortgagesAll adverse credit types CCJ MortgagesCounty Court Judgements Mortgage with DefaultsRegistered defaults guide All CircumstancesFull circumstances guide

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£299 fee applies on mortgage offer (non-refundable).

No fee for the initial consultation. A fee of £299 is payable on receipt of a formal mortgage offer. This fee is non-refundable once the offer has been issued, whether or not the mortgage completes.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Regulatory information

Woodhall Mortgages is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Firm Reference Number 762513). You can verify this on the Financial Services Register.

We offer mortgage advice from across the whole market. This means we consider a comprehensive range of mortgages available across the market. Not all lenders operate through intermediaries, and availability will depend on your individual circumstances and lender criteria. We will make a personal recommendation after assessing your needs and circumstances. Not all lenders operate through intermediaries, and availability will depend on your individual circumstances and lender criteria. We will make a personal recommendation after assessing your needs and circumstances.

Fees: We do not charge a fee for the initial consultation. A fee of £299 is payable on receipt of a formal mortgage offer. This fee is non-refundable once the offer has been issued, whether or not the mortgage completes. You will be informed of this fee before you proceed. We will receive commission from the lender if you proceed with a mortgage. The amount will vary depending on the lender and product and will be disclosed to you before completion.

The total cost of a mortgage will depend on the amount borrowed, interest rate, fees and term. All lending is subject to status and lender criteria.

This is a financial promotion, intended for UK consumers. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. This page is for information purposes only and does not constitute regulated mortgage advice or a personal recommendation. Regulated advice is provided only after a full assessment of your circumstances. Last reviewed: April 2026.

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