"What credit score do I need for a mortgage?" is one of the most searched mortgage questions in the UK — and the honest answer is that there isn't a single number, because no UK lender uses Experian's, Equifax's or TransUnion's consumer-facing scores directly.

Why there's no universal number

Every mortgage lender applies its own internal credit scoring model, built from your credit file data but weighted according to that lender's own risk appetite and criteria. This is why two people with an identical Experian score can receive very different decisions from the same lender — and why being declined by one lender doesn't mean you'll be declined by all.

What matters more than the headline number

  • Payment history: A consistent record of on-time payments across your accounts matters more than the score itself.
  • Recent missed payments or defaults: Especially within the last 12-24 months, these carry more weight than older, resolved issues.
  • Credit utilisation: How much of your available credit you're using at any time.
  • Application frequency: A flurry of recent credit applications can raise concerns, independent of your score.
  • Electoral roll registration: A basic but important identity-verification signal — see our full guide.

Rough score bands as a general guide

As general guidance only — not a guarantee — an Experian score above roughly 880 (out of 999), Equifax above 420 (out of 700), or TransUnion above 604 (out of 710) is often associated with easier access to mainstream mortgage deals. Scores below these levels don't rule out a mortgage, but may mean a narrower choice of lenders or higher rates.

Can you get a mortgage with a poor credit score?

Yes, in many cases — a growing number of specialist lenders serve borrowers with a less-than-perfect credit history, though typically at higher rates and often requiring a larger deposit. A mortgage broker experienced with adverse credit cases can be particularly valuable here, since lender criteria in this segment vary enormously.

What to do before applying

  1. Check your credit report across all three agencies — see our free checking guide
  2. Correct any errors you find — see our error-fixing guide
  3. Register on the electoral roll if you haven't already
  4. Pay down existing credit card or loan balances where possible
  5. Avoid new credit applications in the months before applying

The bottom line

Rather than chasing a specific score, focus on the underlying factors that drive it — clean payment history, low utilisation, accurate personal details, and minimal recent credit-seeking activity. These are exactly what a real mortgage lender's own assessment will weigh, regardless of which consumer app's number you happen to be looking at.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute financial, legal or tax advice. Rates, thresholds and eligibility criteria change over time — always check current terms with the lender or an FCA-regulated adviser before making a decision. See our full terms and disclaimer.