We're Here To Help You Improve It
At Chetwood Lloyd Mortgages, we understand that concerns about credit scores can be daunting when considering buying your first home or remortgaging. The good news? Your credit score isn't fixed — and we're here to help you improve it.
Your credit score is like a financial CV — it helps lenders decide whether to offer you credit and on what terms. The higher your score, the better the deals you're likely to be offered. But don't panic if your score isn't perfect — we specialise in finding solutions, even for tricky credit situations.
Your score is based on your credit report, which tracks:
Whether you pay your bills on time
How much of your available credit you're using
How long you've had credit accounts
What kind of credit you've had (credit cards, loans, mortgages, etc.)
There are a few main agencies in the UK (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion, Crediva), but we simplify things — every Chetwood Lloyd client gets access to a free credit report for life through our secure portal.
Even one missed payment can knock your score — and it doesn't have to be a credit card. Phone bills, utilities, and even buy-now-pay-later plans count. Setting up direct debits is a great way to stay on top.
Try not to use more than 30% of your available credit. If your limit is £2,000, keep your balance under £600 if you can. That tells lenders you're managing credit sensibly — something that boosts your score.
Tip from the Chetwood Lloyd team: If you're close to your limit, paying a chunk off before your statement date (not just your due date) can give your score a faster lift.
Too many applications at once can lower your score. If you're thinking of borrowing, talk to us first. At Chetwood Lloyd Mortgages, we can guide you to lenders who are a better match for your situation — which can stop unnecessary credit searches from damaging your file.
Credit reports aren't always perfect. Errors like old addresses, duplicate entries or wrongly recorded late payments can bring your score down — and you might not even know they're there.
All our clients get a free credit report for life — and our advisers can help you understand what it means and how to fix any issues. This is just one of the many ways Chetwood Lloyd Mortgages is with you every step of the way.
Being on the electoral roll helps lenders verify your identity and address, which can positively impact your credit score. Registering to vote is a simple step that can make a significant difference.
If you're just starting out or recovering from past blips, products like secured credit cards or credit-builder loans can help. Used properly, they can show lenders that you're reliable — and that helps unlock better mortgage deals in the future.
The length of your credit history affects your score. Keeping older accounts open, even if you don't use them often, can demonstrate a longer credit history, which is beneficial.
What if your credit score isn't great right now?
We get it — life happens. Maybe you missed a few payments during a tough spell, or maybe your credit history is thin because you've never borrowed before. Whatever your situation, Chetwood Lloyd Mortgages is here to help.
We work with a wide panel of lenders — including those who specialise in helping people with credit blips. Even if you've been turned down in the past, things may have changed. Our advice is completely independent and fee-free, and we're known for helping people others have given up on.
Let's improve your credit and move forward, together.
Whether you're aiming to get mortgage-ready, improve your remortgage options, or simply understand your credit better, we're here to help you every step of the way.
📞 Book a free call with a Chetwood Lloyd adviser today
✔️ Free lifetime access to your credit report
✔️ Friendly, independent, fee-free advice
✔️ Support from people who genuinely care
Book your free appointment now
