So, your credit score isn’t perfect — maybe it’s even a bit of a mess. But you’re dreaming of buying your own place in the UK. The big question: Can you actually get a mortgage with a poor credit score?
The short answer? Yes, but it’s not always smooth sailing. This guide will walk you through what bad credit really means, what your options are, and how to improve your chances of getting that all-important ‘yes’ from a lender.
What Counts as a Poor Credit Score in the UK?
Each credit reference agency has its own scoring system, but generally:
| Experian | Poor | 561 – 720 |
| Equifax | Poor | 439 – 530 |
| TransUnion | Poor | 561 – 565 |
If you fall into these ranges, you might find it harder to get a mortgage, but it’s not the end of the road.
Why Do People Have Poor Credit?
Bad credit doesn’t always mean you’re careless. Common reasons include:
- Missed credit card or loan payments
- County Court Judgments (CCJs)
- Defaults on mobile or utility bills
- Payday loan usage
- No credit history (especially younger buyers or recent immigrants)
Can You Still Get a Mortgage with Bad Credit Score?
Yes — but expect:
- Higher interest rates
- A bigger deposit requirement (usually 15–30%)
- Fewer options from mainstream banks
Some lenders specialise in bad credit mortgages, so it’s all about knowing where to look.
Types of Mortgages Available for Poor Credit Score
- Bad Credit Mortgages
Offered by specialist lenders — tailored for applicants with CCJs, defaults or low scores. - Guarantor Mortgages
A close family member agrees to step in if you miss repayments. Helps you borrow more with lower risk for lenders. - Joint Mortgages
Applying with someone who has good credit can balance things out. - Right to Buy Mortgages
If you’re a council tenant, you might still qualify — some lenders are more flexible here.
How to Boost Your Chances of Getting Approved
Even if your credit isn’t great, there are smart moves you can make:
- Save a bigger deposit – The more you put down, the better your odds.
- Check your credit report – Fix any mistakes on Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
- Get on the electoral roll – This makes you easier to verify.
- Pay off other debts – Shows lenders you’re in control of your finances.
- Avoid new credit applications – Too many in a short time is a red flag.
- Avoid payday loans – Lenders see these as signs of financial distress.
How Do Lenders Assess You?
Lenders don’t just look at your score. They’ll also consider:
- Employment status & income
- Existing debts and outgoings
- Stability (e.g., how long you’ve lived at your address)
- The size of your deposit
- Affordability checks
Some use manual underwriting, which means a human will review your case — great if your score doesn’t tell the full story.
Best UK Mortgage Lenders for Poor Credit (2025)
Some of the most active lenders for bad credit cases include:
Note: These lenders often work via brokers — not direct to the public.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying to too many lenders at once – Multiple hard checks hurt your score.
- Lying or hiding financial details – It’ll come out in checks.
- Choosing the wrong broker – Use someone experienced with poor credit cases.
- Ignoring terms – Bad credit mortgages can be expensive if you don’t read the fine print.
When to Use a Mortgage Broker
If your situation’s a bit messy — multiple debts, CCJs, low income — a specialist mortgage broker can be a lifesaver. They know which lenders are flexible and can help you structure your application the right way.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Trying?
If you’ve got poor credit, getting a mortgage might feel like a long shot — but it’s more possible than you think. You might need to compromise a bit (higher rates, smaller property, longer wait), but for many, it’s absolutely doable.
Take your time, clean up what you can, and speak to the right people. Owning a home might be closer than you think.
