TIPS TO BOOST YOUR CREDIT RATING

1 Register on the electoral roll: This is seen as a sign of stability and confirms to credit agencies you live where you say you do.

2 Correct any errors: Contact the credit reference agency to get any mistakes corrected or add a ‘notice of correction’ to explain why a payment was missed.

3 Keep any debt on credit cards as low as possible: Experts recommend keeping debt to below 30 per cent of any limit. So, if you have available credit of £3,000, it is best not to have debt more than £900.

4 Space out applications: Making too many applications for credit close together can give the impression a customer is desperate for credit. Try to leave at least three months in between. If you can wait, six is even better.

5 Make your rent count: Tenants can register with firms such as Canopy or Credit Ladder so that rent payments are reported to Experian and included in your credit history.

6 Pay on time: Set up a direct debit to make sure you always make your credit card payments on time. Missed or late payments can stay on your file for six years.