I have a bad credit history, having lost a business in 2007 and unavoidably defaulted on several accounts. My ex wife and I were advised not to attempt an IVA and to sit back and await bankruptcy - but no creditor ever took that step. I'd still be unable to settle.. However I am just about to move to a rented property and am worried about stirring things up if (when, rather) British Gas do a credit check - which I assume I'll fail but thats a separate worry. Will the credit check itself lead to other creditors obtaining the details? I've had another property for 2 years and paid c tax and utilities OK, but no DCA chasing for some time. Any advice anyone?

How do DCA's get employment status on people? I would have thought this was only held by Inland Revenue in respect of tax/NI, so they would not reveal it, surely??