Clear creditors defaults

2004arron

Good evening.

I've just checked my credit score for the first time in about 7 years. It indicated that I was responsible for a debt from sept 2009, some sort of home credit which I'm not aware of.

At present it displays a default notification from Lowells form Apr 2015.

Should they still be trying to chase/ enforce the debt after such a long time?

Are they still aloud to place default notifications on the report?

Any help would be fantastic.

Thanks

sourcrates

Hi,

Yes to both.

Have they written to you about this debt ?

2004arron

Yes, only recently when I moved.

I'm considering sending them a prove it letter. Do you think this would assist me?

sourcrates

Yes, provit letter a good starting point.

See what Lowell have to say for themselves.

National_Debtline

Hi 2004arron

Sending a prove it letter is always a good idea if you have any doubts about the debt. If they can prove the debt is yours you may still be able to argue they have run out of time to pursue you. This is when a debt is known as statute barred.

This will apply if there has been 6 years since the date they could have taken court action (this is usually after one or two missed payments) where you did not pay the debt or acknowledge it in writing.

A default should be registered in a timely manner, usually when your arrears are between 3 to 6 months. The debt and the default will then drop off your credit file 6 years after the date of the default. If you think the default date is wrong you can challenge it, but it is best to look into whether you owe the debt or it is statute barred first.

Susie
@natdebtline

2004arron

It's now sent. What's an acceptable time frame to wait?

National_Debtline

Hi again 2004arron


There's no set timescale but I would say 14 days is reasonable. If you hadn't heard anything at all by then it could be worth getting back in touch. It's a good idea to send correspondence by recorded delivery if you can so you have proof they received your letter.


Susie
@natdebtline

2004arron

How would you suggest I follow up if I fail to receive a response or the default removed?

National_Debtline

If they don't respond you will need to send a follow up letter, try to make sure it's sent by recorded delivery. If you have proof they've received your letter and not responded you can raise a complaint.


If they fail to provide proof the debt is yours then you could ask them to remove the debt from your credit file. If they won’t agree, make a complaint. If that’s not successful you may be able take your complaint on to the Financial Ombudsman www.fos.org.uk.


If you believe the information on your credit file is not accurate you can also complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) www.ico.org.uk. And if you need ongoing help you can contact one of the free debt advice agencies for advice. Best of luck with it.

Susie
@natdebtline