Your Credit Reference file
Your credit reference file, often called a credit history file or simply a credit file, is held (in some form or another) by several agencies. The main agencies are called Experian UK and Equifax. You have some control over it, but generally it is created without your consent, and often without your knowledge. It details each and every loan, mortgage or credit card that you have had in the last 6 years, together with detailed information on how well or how badly you have paid them back. In addition to these entries there is a large amount of collated public record information such as county court judgments (CCJ's), bankruptcy orders, repossessions, collection activities, and electoral roll and fraud information. Other hidden information exists too.

Getting your own copy
Firstly, Write to the credit reference agencies to get a copy of your credit file. The addresses of the 2 main UK credit reference agencies are as follows:

Equifax - P.O. Box 3001, Glasgow, G81 2 DT

Experian - P.O. Box 8000, Nottingham NG1 5GX

Almost all lenders (and most other agencies) refer to these 2 agencies and so you would be well advised to get a copy of your file from both of them. You will need to enclose a cheque or PO for £2 and a note stating all your previous addresses in the last 6 years. They are then legally obliged to send you a full copy of your credit file within 7 days + transit time.

Credit file: Scoring
When you apply for credit, the lender will score your application form, and then obtain a copy of your credit file from the credit reference agencies.

For more on how credit files are viewed by lenders and how to improve your credit file at Experian UK or Equifax, the Complete UK Credit Repair Guide provides valuable information to help you get credit and improve your credit rating. For details about the guide please click here