i've bad credit and i'm worried about my boyfriend

jonesyo

After a few very foolish years of getting myself into a lot of debt i am finally back on track and it's now manageable.
However my boyfriend and i have decided to move in together in november and i am sick with worry because i don't want my bad credit (and it's bad!) affecting our chances of renting the place of our dreams.

Should i not risk it affecting our chances and put the flat in my boyfriends name? (I'm aware that if we split i will have no rights).
Will it affect us getting a joint bank account?

I really don't want my silly past ruining my future. My boyfriend is aware of all this and is really supportive of me trying to get myself out of debt.

TheWaltons_3

It depends on who you rent with - I think Estate Agents carry out credit checks, but I know that most private Landlords don't so long as you provide references and the months rent/deposit in advance.

There is no difference between the types of property you can apply for, they are all private houses/flats just some have decided to let an Estate Agent take the viewings of their hands.

If you went private, you can both get your names on the Tenancy agreement.

As for opening joint accounts, sure you can. Coop do a Cashminder account which gives you the option of having joint names - you get a basic Visa Electron card and can still set up Standing Orders and DD but you don't get a cheque book. From what I gather, this account slowly helps you rebuild your credit rating.

Emmzi

If you were buying, I'd be more cautious, but as you're renting - if you split up, one of you moves out and rents somewhere else... it's just less complicated. However I'd be tempted to build up an 'emergency' fund should you wish to move sooner than later...

Also agree in advance how rent, bills etc will be split.. and maybe put that in writing. Keep records of what you pay and when. Ideally pay things by cheque so there is a record.

Good luck!

Emmzi

PS I wouldn't get a joint bank account as it will instantly scupper his credit rating as you will be financially linked by credit reference agencies.

nottingham-mark

i agree about not getting a joint account, me and my fiancee have just closed ours as we've found out my adverse credit is affecting her