I have no skeletons in my financial cupboard so was surprised to see that in April my Experian rating had dropped from “excellent” to “good” – a massive fall of 80 points. It appeared that Experian had never received details of my address at the time. It explained this was down to the way the local authority updated its electoral roll.
I couldn’t quite believe this as I’d opened two accounts with my bank and utility companies with no issues. Once this matter had been resolved by Experian, my score returned to excellent status. Seven weeks after moving to rented accommodation I checked my Experian rating again to find it has dropped back to good.
My local authority confirms I’m registered at my current address. My banks have my updated details as have my utility companies, HMRC and the DVLA, and still Experian claims it is investigating the matter with the electoral department. WC Willenhall, West Midlands
Credit reference agencies have frightening powers over our financial reputation and, therefore, our ability to borrow. You are wise to keep tabs on your score since many don’t realise there’s a problem with their account until they are turned down for a mortgage or mobile phone contract.
Experian tells me that “it sometimes does take a little while for new electoral roll registrations to come through and be added to credit reports”, but even it admits that two months to update your address is excessive. It blames a “surge” of people registering to vote in the May election and has now amended your details, restored your rating and added a “small goodwill gesture” by way of apology.
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.
