How to rebuild credit history

rosyv

I've lived abroad for 16 years and am thinking of returning to the UK in the next few years. My question is, how do I rebuild a credit history as I understand that my credit file will have been wiped clean after all this time. I have a UK Santander instant saver account and pretty sure I could get a basic current account with them. I have capital and very good pension income and intend to rent, probably a retirement apartment. More than happy to pay a year's rent upfront and provide guarantors but would this be enough? Any advice very much appreciated! Thanks guys!
 

sourcrates

Simply make sure you pay your bills on time, as lots of utility companies now report to your credit file, get yourself on the electoral role, maybe a sim only phone contract, or a basic credit card account, as long as you use it for everyday purchases and repay in full each month.

Just normal stuff, depends why you want a good credit history, only matters if you want to borrow.

rosyv

My concern is looking for a rental property.  I'm happy to pay 12 months rent upfront and would have no problem with guarantors but I was told by an agent that they would still need to do a "soft" credit check whatever that is! 

[Deleted User]

Soft check is basically to look at your credit file for ID, basic data etc