How to dispute a default on Experian
A default on your Experian report is one of the worst things a lender can see. But if the lender didn’t follow the rules when registering it, the default could be invalid — and removable.
Here’s exactly how to challenge a default on Experian, what evidence you need, and the legal requirements lenders must follow.
Key takeaways
- Free to dispute — your legal right under CCA s.159 and UK GDPR.
- Experian must respond within 28 days.
- Lender has 28 days to respond to Experian’s enquiry.
- Check your Experian report free via Free Experian account.
How to dispute with Experian
Log in to your free Experian account and submit a dispute through the contact form, referencing the specific default entry. Provide evidence of why the default is incorrect (e.g., copy of the defective Default Notice, proof of address at the time, payment records).
Alternatively, post your dispute with evidence to Consumer Help Service, PO Box 9000, Nottingham, NG80 7WP. Or email [email protected].
Experian cannot remove a default without the lender’s agreement. If the lender maintains the default is correct, Experian will keep it on your file even if you believe it’s wrong.
Experian-specific tips
If Experian rejects your dispute because the lender maintains the default is accurate, your next step is to complain directly to the lender about the Default Notice validity. Request the Default Notice under CCA s.78 (£1 fee). If it’s defective, the lender should agree to remove the default.
Evidence you’ll need
- Request a copy of the Default Notice from the lender under CCA s.78 (£1 fee). If the lender cannot produce it, this significantly strengthens your case. You should also gather proof of your correct address at the time (utility bills, council tax), account statements showing your payment history, any correspondence with the lender, and proof of any payment arrangement that was in place.
- Experian accepts evidence in PDF, JPEG, PNG, GIF, BMP, and TIFF formats — up to 5 MB per document. Upload through your free Experian account, email to [email protected], or post copies to Consumer Help Service, PO Box 9000, Nottingham, NG80 7WP.
Timeline
Experian must respond within 28 days under the Consumer Credit Act. The lender has 28 days to respond to Experian’s enquiry. Default disputes tend to be complex and may take the full 28 days, particularly if the lender needs to review historical Default Notice records.
Experian typically acknowledges your dispute within 1–2 working days and adds a “disputed” flag to the entry. If the dispute involves a defective Default Notice, Experian may need additional time to verify the lender’s compliance with CCA s.87.
If your dispute is rejected
If Experian rejects your dispute, complain directly to the lender about the Default Notice validity (they have 8 weeks to respond). Request the Default Notice under CCA s.78 if you haven’t already. If the lender won’t budge, escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service — the FOS can order the default removed and award compensation for distress.
Experian’s complaints freephone is 0800 013 8888, or email [email protected]. Postal complaints: Customer Relations Team, Experian, PO Box 8000, Nottingham, NG80 7WF.
Sample dispute letter
For a template letter you can use to dispute a default with Experian, see our dispute letter templates page.
FAQs
Can Experian remove a default without the lender’s permission?
No. CRAs cannot change lender-supplied data without the lender’s agreement. If the lender maintains the default is correct, you need to escalate to the lender directly or the Financial Ombudsman.
How do I get a copy of my Default Notice?
Write to the lender requesting a copy under Section 78 of the Consumer Credit Act (for credit agreements). This costs £1. If they can’t produce it, the default may be challengeable.
Does paying the default remove it from Experian?
No. Paying a default marks it as “satisfied” on your Experian report, but it stays for 6 years from the original default date.
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