James
I was recently refused credit, which surprised me as I had a good credit history previously. Upon investigation it seems I have been linked to a housemate and her credit history is poor due to unpaid debts and CCJs. I am most upset this has happened and don't quite understand why as we are not financially linked and pay rent separately to our resident landlord. He doesn't know of this yet and I feel I should also tell him. However, how do I go about getting myself disassociated from my housemate? I'm worried, as this will affect my future credit applications. We have no financial connections at all.
Claire, Bristol
Claire
This is strange as you can only be linked to your housemate if you are, or have been, financially connected to her in some way. Typically this would be by a joint bank account, mortgage or other loan. It might be worth checking that you have never applied for anything together - like a gas or electricity budget account or to buy a household appliance on credit. Also check that neither of you have ever unwittingly stated that you live together when filling in a credit application. You need to get a copy of your credit report to check that what you've been told is true and you are linked to her. If you are, your report will tell you who 'created' the Association. Get in touch with us and we'll break the link for you.
James