Default Advice

Hi All,


I'm new to this forum and joined looking for some advice regarding a default.


I noticed through Experian that a default had been placed on my credit file by Santander in relation to a bank account that I have had with them for a number of years. I used this account whilst I was at university, and have not used it much since, other than to deposit small amounts of money occassionally to keep the account active.


Background: I previously had a student overdraft on the account, however following my graduation I believed that I had paid off the amount that I owed, however it turned out that a residual amount of around £200 was outstanding. As I did not use the account often, and believed the amount had been paid off in full, I had no reason to expect any correspondence from the bank. I know that I should have been more diligent and known that there was an amount outstanding, but it was a genuine mistake so please do not flame me.


My current issue: During a visit to a bank branch I was informed and provided evidence that Santander have twice inserted the wrong information into their system regarding my address, despite the fact that I went in person to update my details when I moved. When the account required attention, letters were sent out to me (according to Santander), but to the wrong address, and the account eventually defaulted. I did not receive a default letter because, again, Santander sent it to the wrong address.


The default is now sitting on my account, and I was hoping someone could offer me some advice as to what I might be able to do to get it removed. I have never missed a payment for any of my bills before, and my credit score was in a good place previous to this happening. Had I received any correspondence from the bank I would have taken action immediately, and when I was alerted to the default through Experian I immediately paid the amount outstanding.


I have attempted to speak to Santander over the phone a number of times now, however their security system relies on a correct address being said to the advisor and matched to the one they have on their system, and because the address I am saying I reside at does not match either of the previous two addresses (because they were recorded wrongly) I cannot get access to my own account to discuss the issue. I have since written Santander a recorded letter to explain the situation, and disputed the default with Experian, but in the meantime I would appreciate any advice you all might have for me on how I might be able to get this sorted.


Thanks,


Kat