Credit Recovery Timeline

Enter your adverse credit event to see when each tier of lender will consider your mortgage application.

Your adverse credit event

Select an event type and date above to see your timeline

Disclaimer: This timeline is based on typical UK lender criteria as of April 2026. Individual lenders vary significantly — some are more flexible, others more restrictive. Criteria change regularly. This is general guidance only, not financial advice. Always speak to a qualified, FCA-authorised mortgage broker for advice specific to your situation.

Understanding lender tiers

Specialist lenders

Pepper Money, Kensington, Together, Bluestone

Specialist lenders focus on borrowers with complex credit histories. They assess each case individually and can often lend within 1–2 years of a resolved adverse event. Rates are higher to reflect the increased risk.

Near-prime lenders

Precise Mortgages, Aldermore, Kent Reliance

Near-prime (or adverse credit) lenders sit between specialist and mainstream. They have more restrictive criteria than specialists but offer better rates. Typically accessible 2–3 years after a resolved event.

Mainstream lenders

High-street banks, building societies

Most mainstream lenders require a fully clean credit profile or for adverse events to have dropped off entirely. For serious events like bankruptcy or IVA, this typically means waiting the full 6 years.

Adverse credit mortgages explainedCCJ mortgage guide