Credit Application Search Removal

cjmcdougall

I recently applied for a credit card with RBS which was initially declined. After querying this I was told that there were a couple of issues with my application; 1) incorrect address details, and 2) no proof of income. After providing them with the correct address and my past 3 months pay slips the application was successful. However, my credit report now shows two separate credit searches; the first showing as being declined and the second as successful. As I had entered my address correctly on the initial application and the 'soft' search had shown a 95% chance of being accepted - with no mention of proof of income being required, I asked RBS to remove the initial declined search from my credit record. After being passed to the relevant department I have now been told that they will not do this, even though I believe it is due to an error on their part - which they dispute. Before I make an official complaint can anyone offer any advice regarding what my rights may be? I'm looking to buy my first home later this year and I'm worried that this may have a detrimental effect on my mortgage application.

Ben8282

No your credit report does not show one search as being declined and the other search as being successful as the result of a credit search is not shown. Please recheck exactly what is shown on your credit files.

cjmcdougall

Yes, you're correct. What I meant to say was the first search relates to the declined application and the second to the successful one.

Ben8282

OK.
Firstly, it is not clear that there has been any error on the part of RBS. You say that the first search refers to the declined application and the second search relates to the successful one. Two applications. Two searches.
I think you are worrying unduly. An extra hard search, in isolation, will have little or no effect on your ability to obtain further credit. If you were planning to apply for another credit card tomorrow then possibly it could be viewed negatively but I really can't see it having any effect on the result on a mortgage application to be made later this year.
I think you are worrying unduly and in your place would just let this go. Remember, the credit report does not show that the application was declined. A mortgage lender is much more likely to be concerned by any balance that you may have on this card when you apply for the mortgage than an extra hard search a few months previously.

cjmcdougall

Thanks, that's reassuring. I'm usually very careful with my finances and that's why I panicked a little bit. Although, I can see now I was just overreacting!