Renting with a CCJ or Bad Credit in London

Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond

Renting · Bad credit

Renting with a CCJ or bad credit

6 yearsCCJ on file

Guarantoryour best tool

1 monthmax rent in advance

Faircase-by-case

In short: A CCJ makes renting harder, but not impossible. Referencing checks will usually find it, so be upfront. What helps most is a strong guarantor, proof of steady income, a good previous landlord reference, and showing the debt is paid. Since 1 May 2026, landlords in England can't ask for more than one month's rent in advance, so "paying six months upfront" is no longer an option. Fraser Bond looks at each application on its merits.

How a CCJ shows up

Situation	What it means for renting
CCJ paid within one month	Removed from the register, so it shouldn't show
CCJ satisfied later	Stays for 6 years but marked "satisfied", which looks better
CCJ unpaid	Stays for 6 years; landlords will ask why
Older than 6 years	Drops off your credit file

CCJs and tenant referencing in England and Wales

Improve your chances

Check your fileGet your free credit reports so nothing surprises you.

Pay or settleSatisfy the CCJ if you can and get a certificate.

Line up a guarantorA UK homeowner with good credit and income.

Show stabilityPayslips, bank statements and an employer reference.

Get a landlord referenceA clean rent history matters a lot.

Explain upfrontA short note about what happened helps.

Affordability check

Rent (£ per month)

Your gross income (£ per year)

Guarantor gross income (£ per year)

Typical income needed (30× monthly rent)–

Your shortfall–

Guarantor typically needs (36× rent)–

Rules of thumb vary between referencing companies and landlords.

Documents to prepare

Photo ID and right to rent
3 months' payslips or accounts
3 months' bank statements
Previous landlord reference
CCJ certificate of satisfaction, if paid
Guarantor's details and ID

How Fraser Bond can help

We review applications individually
Help setting up a guarantor
No blanket bans on benefits or children
Homes across London

Frequently asked questions

Keep exploring

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How to Rent an Apartment in London: What to Check FirstRENTING GUIDE
When Can a Landlord Keep Your Deposit? Your Rights in EnglandRENTING GUIDE
Weekly to Monthly Rent Conversion: The Right Way to Calculate

Browse every guide in The London Renter's Hub → · London area guides →

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Can a landlord refuse me because of a CCJ?

Yes, a landlord can turn down an application for affordability or credit reasons, but it must be judged fairly.

Can I pay rent in advance to get approved?

Not more than one month. Since 1 May 2026, landlords can't ask for more than one month's rent in advance.

How long does a CCJ last?

Six years from the judgment date, unless paid in full within one month.

Does Fraser Bond accept tenants with CCJs?

We consider every application on its merits. Register and talk to us.

Looking for a home with bad credit?

Talk to us about your situation and we'll be straight with you about options.

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Renting with a CCJ: How to Find a Landlord Who Will Say Yes

How a CCJ shows up