Your credit score plays a crucial role in whether you can secure a mortgage in the UK and how much interest you’ll pay. Lenders use it to assess your reliability as a borrower. But what credit score do you actually need for a mortgage? In this guide, we’ll break down the credit score requirements for different mortgage types, how to check your score, and tips to improve it.
1. What is a Credit Score?
A credit score is a number that represents your creditworthiness based on your financial history. Mortgage lenders use it to determine the risk of lending you money.
Credit scores in the UK are provided by three main credit reference agencies:
Experian (Score range: 0-999)
Equifax (Score range: 0-1000)
ClearScore (Score range: 0-710)
Each lender has its own criteria, but generally, a higher score increases your chances of mortgage approval and better interest rates.
Tip: You can check your score for free at Experian, Equifax, and ClearScore.
2. What Credit Score is Needed for a Mortgage in the UK?
Lenders don’t have a single set minimum score for mortgage approval, but here’s a general guide:
Experian Credit Score Guide for Mortgages
Excellent (961-999) – High chance of mortgage approval with low-interest rates.
Good (881-960) – Likely to be approved with competitive rates.
Fair (721-880) – Approval possible, but higher interest rates likely.
Poor (561-720) – May struggle to get a mortgage; a guarantor or higher deposit may be required.
Very Poor (0-560) – Unlikely to be approved.
Equifax Credit Score Guide for Mortgages
Excellent (811-1000) – Access to the best mortgage deals.
Good (671-810) – High chance of approval with competitive rates.
Fair (531-670) – May get approved but with a higher deposit or interest rate.
Poor (439-530) – Limited mortgage options; specialist lenders may be needed.
Very Poor (0-438) – Likely to be rejected.
ClearScore Credit Score Guide for Mortgages
Excellent (628-710) – Strong chance of approval.
Good (604-627) – Likely to get approved.
Fair (566-603) – Some lenders may approve, but terms might not be favourable.
Poor (561-565) – Limited options; may require a larger deposit.
Very Poor (0-560) – Unlikely to be approved.
Tip: Some mortgage providers focus more on your income, affordability, and deposit size than just your credit score.
3. How to Improve Your Credit Score for a Mortgage
If your credit score isn’t high enough, here are some proven ways to boost it:
Check for Errors on Your Credit Report – Mistakes can lower your score. Dispute any incorrect information.
Register on the Electoral Roll – Lenders use this to verify your address.
Pay Bills on Time – Late payments damage your score.
Reduce Your Credit Utilisation – Aim to use less than 30% of your credit limit.
Limit New Credit Applications – Too many credit checks in a short time can reduce your score.
Keep Old Credit Accounts Open – A longer credit history helps build a stronger profile.
Tip: Use tools like Credit Karma to monitor your credit score for free.
4. Can You Get a Mortgage with a Low Credit Score?
Yes, but options may be limited. Here’s how to increase your chances:
Save a Bigger Deposit – Lenders may approve you with a deposit of 15-25% instead of the typical 5-10%.
Use a Specialist Lender – Some lenders cater to bad credit mortgages.
Apply with a Guarantor – A family member with good credit can back your application.
Opt for a Joint Mortgage – Applying with someone who has a strong credit history can help.
Specialist UK Mortgage Lenders for Bad Credit:
Tip: Consider working with a mortgage broker who specialises in bad credit mortgages to find the best deal.
5. Final Thoughts
A higher credit score improves your mortgage options and secures better interest rates. If your score is low, take steps to improve it before applying. Even if you have poor credit, specialist lenders and larger deposits can still help you get a mortgage.
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