Can I get a mortgage with bad credit?
General information only. This is not financial advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-06
Can I get a mortgage with bad credit?
Yes, in many cases. Specialist and adverse-credit lenders in the UK consider applications from people with CCJs, defaults, missed payments, debt management plans, and even discharged bankruptcy — depending on how long ago the issue occurred and its severity. The older and smaller the adverse credit event, the more lender options you have. High-street lenders are less flexible, but the specialist market is broad and a broker who works in this space can identify the right fit.
How does a CCJ affect my mortgage application?
A County Court Judgment (CCJ) reduces your lender options but does not make a mortgage impossible. Many specialist lenders will consider a CCJ registered more than two to three years ago, particularly if it has been satisfied (fully paid). Unsatisfied CCJs and recent ones are treated more harshly. The amount matters too — a £200 CCJ is viewed very differently from a £5,000 one.
Can I get a mortgage with a default?
Yes, although your options depend on when the default was registered, the amount, and whether it has been satisfied. Some specialist lenders will consider defaults registered within the last one to two years if they are small and relate to unsecured credit such as a mobile phone or utility bill. A larger deposit and a clean credit record since the default help significantly.
How long do I have to wait after bad credit to get a mortgage?
There is no universal waiting period, but lenders treat recent adverse credit more harshly than older events. Many specialist lenders become comfortable with CCJs or defaults that are two to three years old. Discharged bankruptcy typically requires at least three years — sometimes six — before a specialist lender will consider you, though some will act sooner with a large enough deposit and evidence of financial recovery.
Does a larger deposit help when I have bad credit?
Yes, significantly. A larger deposit reduces the lender's exposure and opens access to more specialist lenders. With adverse credit, aiming for at least 15–25% deposit is advisable. Some lenders who would decline at 90% LTV will consider the same application at 75% LTV. If you can delay your purchase to save a bigger deposit, this often delivers more options and better rates.
Will applying for a mortgage hurt my credit score further?
A full mortgage application leaves a hard search on your credit file, which can reduce your score slightly. Multiple hard searches in a short period can compound this. A specialist broker can research your options using soft searches (which do not affect your score) before submitting a formal application, reducing the risk of unnecessary footprints on your file.
Risk warning
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Think carefully before securing other debts against your home. This article is general information only and does not constitute financial advice.
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