Can I Get a Mortgage With a CCJ — UK Guide

Having a CCJ on your credit file doesn’t mean homeownership is off the table. Here’s how to get a mortgage and what to expect.

How CCJs Affect Mortgage Applications

A County Court Judgment tells lenders you’ve previously failed to repay a debt. Every lender views this differently:

Key Factors Lenders Consider

It’s not just whether you have a CCJ — lenders also look at:

• Value of the CCJ — small amounts (under £500) are viewed more leniently
• Number of CCJs — one is much better than several
• Whether it’s satisfied — paid CCJs are strongly preferred
• How long ago — older is better
• Your behaviour since — clean credit since the CCJ helps significantly
• The rest of your credit file — other defaults, missed payments, or debt problems

Your Chances by Scenario

Best Chance — Single Satisfied CCJ, 3+ Years Old

• Multiple lenders available
• Rates typically 1–2% above standard
• 10–15% deposit usually sufficient
• Some building societies and challenger banks will consider you

Moderate Chance — Satisfied CCJ, 1–3 Years Old

• Specialist and some mid-tier lenders
• Rates typically 2–3% above standard
• 15–20% deposit recommended
• Strong current income and clean recent credit help

Harder — Recent or Unsatisfied CCJ

• Specialist adverse credit lenders only
• Rates typically 3–5% above standard
• 20–25% deposit usually needed
• Must demonstrate affordability clearly

Multiple CCJs or Mixed Adverse Credit

• Specialist lenders only
• Very limited options if combined with defaults, IVAs, or bankruptcy
• Larger deposits required (25%+)
• A broker is essential

Interest Rate Impact

Expect to pay more than someone with a clean credit file:

These rates are indicative — your actual rate depends on LTV, income, and overall profile. The good news: you can remortgage to a better rate once your CCJ ages or drops off your file.

Steps to Get a Mortgage With a CCJ

1. Get Your Credit Report

Check all three credit reference agencies:

• Experian — check your Experian report
• Equifax — check your Equifax report
• TransUnion — check your TransUnion report

Look for:

• The exact date, value, and status of your CCJ(s)
• Any errors — if the CCJ is wrong, you can dispute it
• The overall picture — other marks, missed payments, etc.

2. Satisfy Your CCJ If You Haven’t

Even after 1 month, paying is still worthwhile — satisfied CCJs are viewed far more favourably.

3. Build Your Credit

While waiting for the CCJ to age:

• Get on the electoral roll — basic credit building step
• Use a credit builder card — spend small amounts and pay in full each month
• Pay all bills on time — builds a positive recent history
• Don’t apply for lots of credit — multiple applications hurt your score

4. Save a Larger Deposit

The bigger your deposit, the more lenders will consider you:

5. Use a Specialist Mortgage Broker

This is essential with a CCJ. A broker who specialises in adverse credit:

• Knows exactly which lenders accept your specific circumstances
• Can present your application in the best light
• Avoids wasted applications (each rejection adds a search to your file)
• Accesses lenders not available to the public
• Many offer free initial consultations

The Remortgage Strategy

Many borrowers with CCJs use a two-step approach:

1. Get a mortgage now on specialist terms (higher rate, larger deposit)
2. Remortgage after 2–3 years or once the CCJ drops off (6 years) to a mainstream lender at a much better rate

This can save thousands in interest over the life of the mortgage.

After Your CCJ Drops Off

Once 6 years have passed from the date of the judgment:

• The CCJ is removed from your credit file
• Lenders can no longer see it in standard credit checks
• You can apply to mainstream lenders at normal rates
• Your credit score should improve significantly

Related Guides

• CCJ Guide
• How to Improve Your Credit Score
• Can I Get a Mortgage With Bad Credit
• First-Time Buyer Guide