How to dispute a default on TransUnion
A default on your TransUnion 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 TransUnion, 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.
- TransUnion must respond within 28 days.
- Lender has 28 days to respond to TransUnion’s enquiry.
- Check your TransUnion report free via Credit Karma.
How to dispute with TransUnion
Go to transunionstatreport.co.uk and find the default entry. Click “Something not right?” and select “Raise a dispute”. Describe the issue and upload evidence (up to 5 documents; JPG, JPEG, PDF, or TIFF).
TransUnion places a Notice of Dispute (NOD) on the entry while investigating. The lender has 28 days to respond. If they don’t respond, TransUnion’s policy is to suppress or remove the disputed data.
Alternatively, email [email protected] or post to PO Box 647, Hull, HU9 9QZ.
TransUnion-specific tips
TransUnion’s stated policy of suppressing or removing data when lenders don’t respond within 28 days is particularly useful for default disputes, as some lenders (especially those that have sold the debt) may be slow to respond or fail to respond at all.
Evidence you’ll need
- The Default Notice is the key document. Request a copy from the lender under CCA s.78 (£1 fee). If they cannot produce one, the default may be challengeable on that basis alone. Back this up with proof of your correct address at the time, account statements, correspondence with the lender, and proof of any payment arrangement.
- TransUnion accepts up to 5 documents per dispute in JPG, JPEG, PDF, or TIFF format. Upload via transunionstatreport.co.uk or email to [email protected]. Postal evidence goes to PO Box 647, Unit 4, Hull, HU9 9QZ.
Timeline
TransUnion must respond within 28 days under the Consumer Credit Act. The lender has 28 days to respond. TransUnion automatically places a formal Notice of Dispute (NOD) on the entry, visible to all lenders who check your file during the investigation.
Default disputes can be complex, especially if the lender needs to retrieve archived Default Notice records. If the lender doesn’t respond within 28 days, TransUnion’s policy is to suppress or remove the disputed data — particularly useful when debt owners have changed hands. Credit Karma users should allow an additional 7 days for the refresh.
If your dispute is rejected
If TransUnion rejects your dispute, complain directly to the lender about the Default Notice validity (8-week response window). If the lender refuses to budge, escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service. The FOS can order the default removed and award compensation for distress.
TransUnion must acknowledge formal complaints within 5 working days and provide a final response within 8 weeks. Contact them at [email protected] or PO Box 647, Hull, HU9 9QZ. The NOD placed during investigation remains visible to lenders until the data is corrected.
Sample dispute letter
For a template letter you can use to dispute a default with TransUnion, see our dispute letter templates page.
FAQs
Can TransUnion 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 TransUnion?
No. Paying a default marks it as “satisfied” on your TransUnion report, but it stays for 6 years from the original default date.
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