CheckMyFile UK: Why We Use It Before Every Mortgage

Overview

The UK’s Only Multi-Agency Credit Report

CheckMyFile is the only credit reporting service in the UK that combines data from all four main credit reference agencies — Experian, Equifax, TransUnion and Crediva — into a single, side-by-side report. Different mortgage lenders subscribe to different agencies, and an adverse marker may appear on one file but not another. Without checking all four, you could have a significant issue on your file that a lender will see before you do.

3 agencies in one:

Equifax, Experian & TransUnion — all in a single report

Spot errors early:

‍Correct mistakes before lenders see them

Identity protection:

Detect fraudulent activity on your credit file

Updated monthly:

Track improvements to your score in near real-time

Credit scores

Understanding your score

Scores vary between agencies because each uses a different scale. What matters most is the band you fall into — and understanding what's driving your number so you can improve it.

Band	Experian range	What it means for mortgages
Excellent	961–999	Best rates available, wide lender choice
Good	881–960	Competitive rates, most lenders accessible
Fair	721–880	Standard rates, some restrictions may apply
Poor	561–720	Higher rates, specialist lenders recommended
Very Poor	0–560	Specialist lenders only — we can still help

What affects your score

Four factors that matter most

Payment history— the single biggest factor. Even one missed payment stays on your file for six years.

Credit utilisation— how much of your available credit you're using. Keep it below 30% where possible.

Length of credit history— older accounts generally help. Don't close them unless necessary.

Credit mix— having a variety of credit types (credit cards, loans) can be positive.Recent applications— each hard search leaves a mark. Space out applications and avoid multiple in a short window

Before your mortgage

How to use CheckMyFile to prepare

Get your report CheckMyFile offers a free 30-day trial — sufficient to download your full report and share it with your broker. After the trial, the service costs £14.99 per month. Cancel at any time.

Check for errors Look for any missed payment markers, defaults (noting date, value and satisfaction status on each agency), CCJs, hard searches, linked addresses, and accounts you do not recognise.

Understand soft vs hard searches Checking your own report through CheckMyFile uses a soft search — invisible to lenders and with no impact on your score. Hard searches (from credit applications) are visible for 12 months. Avoid speculative applications.

Check 3–6 months before applying This gives you time to dispute errors (disputes can take 28 days or more), settle small outstanding debts, and strengthen your file before a lender sees it.

Bring your report to us Share it with your adviser at Alexander Southwell. We’ll go through every entry and explain exactly what each means and how lenders are likely to view it — before any application is submitted.

CheckMyFile: Why We Use It Before Every Mortgage Application

The UK’s Only Multi-Agency Credit Report

Understanding your score

How to use CheckMyFile to prepare

Ready to Take the First Step?

Speak to one of our fee-free mortgage advisers today. We'll calculate your affordability, explain your options, and help you move forward with confidence.