Credit reports

[ziggy68]

Hi,
I would like to check my credit reports but am concerned that doing so may open up the floodgates from debt collection agencies. Any debt I may have had is over 6 years old so should be statute barred but I really have no desire to be hounded.
Also, if a debt is older than 6 years old does it come off your credit report automatically or do you have to do it yourself.
Thanks for your help.

[reallymadwoman]

Anything older than 6 years (either from date of default or settlement date) should be removed automatically.

It is possible that applying for your credit report will result in sudden contact from various debt collectors - I've seen many reports of it happening, though I don't have personal experience of this.

Based on the above, unless you're desperate to see your report or prepared to issue 'statute barred' letters for ever more, I wouldn't bother just yet. Are you absolutely certain everything will be over 6 years?

[ziggy68]

Hi,
Thanks for that. I have to admit you have confirmed my suspicions. I am 99% certain that it is all over 6 years but really do not want to have to keep sending out letters. I don't need to see my report, I suppose. It was just to see if it had automatically cleared. I have just moved back to the Uk and eventually will want bank accounts etc.

[reallymadwoman]

I would wait until you absolutely have to before asking for a copy of your credit file then.

[ziggy68]

Thanks. I will do just that. I really appreciate the advice.