The short answer
Bad credit does not automatically stop you getting a bridging loan. Many lenders look first at the property and how the loan will be repaid. Credit problems can still change which lenders are willing to consider your case, how much you can borrow and what it costs. Every lender decides each case on its own merits.
Why credit matters less than with a mortgage
The loan is secured on property and repaid from a sale or a refinance, so the value of the security and the exit carry the most weight. A lender may still want to understand any missed payments, defaults or CCJs.
What bad credit can change
- The number of lenders willing to consider the case
- The loan to value a lender will offer
- The interest rate and fees
- The evidence a lender asks for
If the loan is secured on your home
The loan is regulated by the FCA, and the lender must check affordability. Your credit history is part of that assessment.
Be upfront
Tell us about any missed payments, defaults or CCJs at the start. It saves time, because we can aim at lenders that consider your circumstances. If your exit relies on a refinance, the mortgage lender will check your credit too, so we look at that route early. Past trends are not a guide to the future.
What to do next
Our deal checker runs no credit search and takes about two minutes. If you have a specific case, book a free 15-minute call and tell us what has happened. For more on credit and mortgages, see our adverse credit mortgages page.
Check your deal in 2 minutesLoan to value, indicative cost and what a lender will ask. No credit search.
Open the deal checkerCommon questions
Can I get a bridging loan with a CCJ or a default?
Sometimes. Some lenders will consider recent CCJs and defaults, especially where the property and the exit are strong. Options and costs can differ, so tell us early.
Will bad credit make a bridging loan more expensive?
It can. Fewer lenders may be available, and some may offer a lower loan to value or charge more. We compare the full cost of each option.
Does the deal checker run a credit check?
No. The deal checker does not run any credit search. A lender will only search your credit file later, with your permission, if you decide to proceed.
Important: This article is general information, not personal advice. Lender policies and criteria change; speak to an adviser about your circumstances. Bridging loans are short term, secured borrowing and can be expensive, so you need a clear and realistic exit plan. Commercial mortgages, most business finance and some bridging loans are not regulated by the FCA. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.