How lenders assess a CCJ
Policies can set limits by value, date registered, date satisfied and number of judgments. Some ignore small or older entries; others require a defined period to have passed.
What information should you gather?
Before checking lenders, confirm the details shown across your credit reports.
- Registration and satisfaction dates
- Original and outstanding value
- Court reference and creditor
- Reason the judgment arose
- Evidence where an entry is incorrect or disputed
Does satisfying the CCJ help?
Paying a judgment can improve how some lenders view the case, but it does not remove the entry immediately. Do not make a payment solely for mortgage purposes without understanding the lender criteria and your legal position.
Building the wider case
Recent payment conduct, stable income, deposit and the explanation behind the event help provide context. The objective is a truthful, well-evidenced application to a lender whose policy fits the facts.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a CCJ stay on my credit file?+
A CCJ generally remains on the public register and credit file for six years, subject to rules around cancellation and correction.
Can I get a mortgage with an unsatisfied CCJ?+
Possibly with some lenders, depending on value, age, deposit and the rest of the application.
Will I need a larger deposit?+
It may be required where the CCJ is recent or significant, but exact loan-to-value limits vary.