credit checks - how do they work please

[peppersquint]

Hi there

I'm hoping someone can help and advise please.

I have lived outside of the UK for the past nine years (in France) and although I have done some temporary work in the UK during this period most of the time I have been a SAHM.

I am now about to move back to the UK full time to take up a new permanent job.

We are waiting to sell our home in France but in the meantime I will hopefully be renting in the UK.

I am looking at lettings agencies but they all seem to mention that a credit check will be needed.

In theory I have no problem with this as I have no skeletons in the cupboard however as I have lived in France for nearly a decade how can I prove I am trustworthy?

We do have a joint bank account (HSBC) that is registered at DSD's address in UK, and I have a Visa card and a Nationwide savings account - all at DSD's address. I am also on the electoral roll for my previous address in UK.

However I am worried that a credit check on my UK accounts will cause some problem for DSD. Is it the person or the address that is checked? I am happy to be checked and credit scored but don't want there to be an excess credit check done on SDD's address.

Does anyone know how these things work? Thanks in advance

Hiya

When looking to let they're checking to make sure you don't have CCJ's or bankruptcy. They're not looking for the nitty gritty of your accounts so the fact you have a HSBC acct is a bonus.

Also, credit scoring is done on the person, not the address. Obvs the address has to be searched, but against your name - it will not have an effect on your DSD.

Just be up front with the letting agents and they'll guide you through the process - it's lying that'll get you into trouble (not saying you will). Not disclosing information is what causes the problems. Good luck with the (eventual) move!

MooMa1d - thanks very much for that. Think i'll be upfront about everything - like you say I'd just get myself in knots otherwise! Thanks again

your only possible problem is that you won't appear on the electoral roll and may have a lack of credit history.

you should be able to talk through this, but if it is a problem ways round it include paying your first six months rent upfront (not always that easy I know) or having a UK guarantor. That said, the full time job should really help.

once you've been back in the UK for six months you should be fine.

Cheers specialsubject - I am on the electoral roll (as an overseas voter) - registered at my last UK known address - so hopefully that will be OK.
I've phoned some lettings agents this morning and they have been pretty positive (I guess they must deal with this occassionally) - then again they might just want to take the non-refundable administrative fees!!