What is the Max Credit Score UK?

The maximum credit score in the UK varies by agency: Experian max is 999, Equifax max is 1000, and TransUnion max is 710. A 'good' score for mortgages is typically in the top third of each range. Lenders assess your full credit history, not just the number.

What is the max credit score UK?

The maximum credit score in the UK depends on which agency you check: Experian max is 999, Equifax max is 1000, and TransUnion (used by Credit Karma) max is 710. Each uses different scoring systems, so a 'good' score varies by agency.

What is a good credit score for a mortgage UK?

There's no single 'good' score as each agency uses different ranges (Experian 0-999, Equifax 0-1000, TransUnion 0-710). Generally, scores in the top third of each range give you the best options, but lenders look at your full credit history, not just the number.

How can I improve my credit score for a mortgage?

Register on the electoral roll, reduce credit card balances below 30% of limits, avoid multiple credit applications, ensure all bills are paid on time, and check for errors on your credit report. Improvements typically take 3-6 months to show.

Can I get a mortgage with no credit history?

Yes, but it's more challenging. Having no credit history (thin file) means lenders can't assess your repayment behaviour. Consider getting a credit builder card or being added to a family member's account to build history before applying.

Do mortgage lenders use Experian, Equifax or TransUnion?

Different lenders use different agencies, and many check more than one. It's worth checking your report with all three agencies before applying to ensure there are no errors or surprises on any of them.

Quick Answer

What Credit Score Do I Need for a Mortgage in the UK?

Last reviewed: December 2025

Reviewed by Jay Sabine – CeMAP Qualified – 29 years experience

There's no universal minimum credit score for a UK mortgage, as each lender uses different criteria and scoring systems.

Unlike the US, the UK doesn't have a single credit score that all lenders use. Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion each have different scoring ranges. Lenders also use their own internal scoring. What matters more is your credit history: CCJs, defaults, missed payments, and debt levels. A 'good' score generally means few or no adverse markers and a history of responsible credit use.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Your Home Finance Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA 989177).

Key Points

1UK lenders don't use a universal credit score threshold
2Each credit agency uses different score ranges (e.g., Experian 0-999)
3Lenders assess the full credit report, not just the number
4Adverse markers (CCJs, defaults) matter more than the score itself
5Specialist lenders focus less on scores, more on circumstances
6You can get a mortgage with a 'poor' score through specialist lenders

Eligibility Criteria

No minimum credit score required (depends on lender)
Fewer adverse credit markers improves options
Stable income and employment
Affordable deposit (larger helps offset credit issues)
No current arrears or payment problems
Registered on electoral roll at current address

Typical Timeframe

Credit scores update monthly as new information is reported. Improving your score can take 3-12 months of positive credit behaviour. Adverse markers like CCJs and defaults remain for 6 years but have less impact as they age.

Next Steps

1Check your credit reports from all three agencies (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion)
2Dispute any errors on your credit file
3Register on the electoral roll if not already
4Reduce credit utilisation below 30% of limits
5Speak to a broker who assesses whole-of-market options

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What Credit Score Do I Need for a Mortgage in the UK?

Key Points

Eligibility Criteria

Typical Timeframe

Next Steps

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