Can You Get a Mortgage with Adverse Credit?

Can You Still Get a Mortgage with Adverse Credit?

In many cases, yes. Having adverse credit does not automatically stop you from getting a mortgage, but it does affect which lenders are suitable.

Some high street lenders may say no straight away. Others, including specialist lenders, will look at the full picture. That includes how long ago the credit issue happened, whether it has been settled, and how your finances look today.

This is where a whole of market broker makes a real difference, as we know which lenders are open to different types of adverse credit and which ones to avoid.

You can link here naturally to your mortgages with CCJ or bad credit mortgage pages.

What is Adverse Credit?

“Adverse credit” refers to a poor or damaged credit history. This could include:

• Missed or late payments

• Defaults

• County Court Judgements (CCJs)

• Debt Management Plans (DMPs)

• IVAs or bankruptcy

Lenders often see these as warning signs, but they don’t mean you can’t get a mortgage.

Can You Still Get a Mortgage?

Yes, many lenders offer adverse credit mortgages or products for those with a less-than-perfect credit score.

It depends on:

• How recent are the credit issues are

• Whether the debts have been settled

• Your income, outgoings, and deposit size

At Drummonds, we work with both mainstream and specialist lenders who take a more flexible, case-by-case approach.

How We Can Help

We’re experts in helping people rebuild their financial future.

✅ We’ll review your credit report and explain it in plain English.

✅ We’ll match you with suitable lenders (including those not on the high street). ✅ We’ll advise on how to boost your credit before applying.

✅ We’ll manage the entire mortgage application from start to finish

You’ll get honest advice, a clear plan, and a truly caring team.

Steps to Improve Your Credit Before Applying

Even if you’re not quite ready, there are ways to strengthen your profile:

• Register on the electoral roll

• Pay bills and credit commitments on time

• Keep your credit utilisation low

• Avoid taking out new debt

• Check your credit report for errors

These small steps can make a big difference in just a few months

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Real People, Real Mortgages

We believe your past shouldn't define your future. If you’re worried about your credit history, talk to us today. There are more options than you think—and we’ll help you find the right one.

What Counts as Adverse Credit?

Adverse credit is a broad term, and it means different things to different lenders. It does not automatically mean you cannot get a mortgage.

Adverse credit can include missed payments, defaults, CCJs, debt management plans, payday loans, or past arrears on credit cards, loans, or even previous mortgages. Some lenders are more concerned about recent issues, while others are more flexible if problems happened several years ago.

This is why speaking to a mortgage broker early on is so important. The detail matters, not just the label.

How Long Does Adverse Credit Stay on Your Record?

Most adverse credit stays on your credit report for six years from the date it occurred. After that, it usually drops off completely.

However, lenders do not all treat credit history the same way. Some focus heavily on the last two or three years, while others may be more flexible if issues are older and your recent conduct has been good.

Older adverse credit, especially if settled, is often far less of a problem than people expect.

Can You Remortgage with Adverse Credit?

Yes, remortgaging with adverse credit is possible, even if the credit issues happened after you took out your current mortgage.

Options may include:

• Switching lenders

• Staying with your current lender

• Looking at a product transfer if available

A broker can help you decide which route is most realistic and cost-effective based on your circumstances.

Product transfer and remortgage advice pages.

Adverse Credit and Self-Employed Applicants

If you are self-employed and have adverse credit, lenders will usually look at both your income history and your credit profile together.

Some lenders are comfortable using one year’s accounts, while others prefer two or more. The key is presenting your income clearly and choosing the right lender from the start.

Self-employed mortgages page.

Steps You Can Take to Improve Your Chances

There are often small steps that can improve your mortgage options, such as checking your credit report, reducing outstanding balances, or waiting until a particular issue drops off your file.

Even timing your application a few months later can sometimes change which lenders are available to you.

A short conversation with a broker can help you decide the best approach.