I am having similar problems with Equifax to a reader in December; I am trying to apply for a mortgage but since I moved residence (and changed my name on divorce) my credit rating has gone from “excellent” to “very poor” in one fell swoop. I have provided Equifax with a letter from the electoral officer to show my correct details, but to no avail. None of my credit agreements are linked to my current address which I believe is the cause of my very poor score and is preventing me buying a home. CD, Yeovil, Somerset
It’s frightening the power those shadowy credit references have over our lives, yet many of us are only aware of their existence when we discover that a simple clerical error has cost us a vital loan. Equifax says that its system did not recognise your new lodgings, that were within a naval base, as a residence. It promises that incorrect data is amended as quickly as possible although it seems that your problem was only rectified after you involved the press. Your address has now been properly logged and your credit rating amended, so hopefully you can proceed with securing a mortgage.
If you need help email Anna Tims at your.problems@observer.co.uk or write to Your Problems, The Observer, Kings Place, 90 York Way, London N1 9GU. Include an address and phone number.
