How Long After a CCJ Can You Get a Mortgage? | Expert Guide by Mortgage Bridge

How Long After a CCJ Can You Apply for a Mortgage?

If you’ve had a County Court Judgment (CCJ) in the past, it’s natural to worry that getting a mortgage might be impossible — but it’s not. Far from it.

At Mortgage Bridge, we help people with credit challenges every day, including clients with CCJs, defaults, and missed payments. The truth is, many lenders are open to helping if you know how to position your application and understand what they’re looking for.

In this guide, we’ll explain how long after a CCJ you can apply for a mortgage, how lenders view your situation, and what steps can improve your chances of approval.

What Is a CCJ and How Does It Affect Getting a Mortgage?

A County Court Judgment (CCJ) is a legal order issued when you fail to repay a debt. It shows that a creditor had to take formal action to recover what you owed.

CCJs stay on your credit file for six years from the date they’re issued, even if you’ve since paid them off. During that time, lenders will see it on your credit report and factor it into their decision.

Having a CCJ doesn’t automatically mean “no” — it just means some lenders will be more cautious. The older the CCJ, the better your chances. Many of our clients secure mortgages even while a CCJ is still on their record.

How Long After a CCJ Can I Apply for a Mortgage?

You can technically apply for a mortgage as soon as you’re ready, but whether you’ll be approved depends on when the CCJ was registered and how your credit has looked since.

Here’s a general idea of what lenders look for based on timeframes:

  • Within 12 months: Options are limited, but some specialist lenders may consider you if the CCJ was small or settled quickly.
  • 1–3 years after: More lenders will be open to your application, especially if you’ve been managing credit responsibly since.
  • 3–6 years after: You’ll have a wide range of lenders to choose from, particularly if the CCJ is satisfied.
  • 6+ years after: The CCJ drops off your credit file completely, meaning most lenders won’t see it at all.

So while you can apply straight away, waiting at least 12–24 months (and showing steady finances) dramatically improves your chances of approval and better rates.

Can You Get a Mortgage With a CCJ Still on Your Record?

Yes, you can — and we help people do it all the time.

Lenders will assess the size, date, and status of the CCJ, along with the rest of your financial picture. Some will consider you even if the CCJ hasn’t yet dropped off your record, provided you’ve demonstrated good financial conduct since.

Here’s what can work in your favour:

  • The CCJ is over 12 months old.
  • It’s been satisfied (paid off).
  • Your credit behaviour has been stable since.
  • You have a larger deposit or strong income.

Specialist lenders focus on your recovery, not just your past — which means even with active CCJs, you might still have options.

What If My CCJ Is Unpaid?

If your CCJ is unsatisfied, your options are more limited, but not impossible.

Lenders will see an unpaid CCJ as a higher risk, but some will still consider your case if:

  • The CCJ was small (for example, under £1,000).
  • You’ve since caught up on other commitments.
  • You can offer a larger deposit.

In most cases, it’s best to settle your CCJ before applying. Once you’ve paid it off, your credit file will be updated to show it’s “satisfied,” which makes a significant difference to lenders.

We can help you decide whether it’s better to apply now or wait until you’ve paid it in full.

How Do Lenders View CCJs When Assessing Applications?

Every lender has its own criteria, but generally, they’ll look at:

  • When the CCJ was registered – older is always better.
  • Whether it’s satisfied or unsatisfied.
  • How many CCJs you have (and the total amount).
  • Your income and deposit size.
  • Your current credit behaviour — no new issues or missed payments.

Mainstream high street banks are usually strict about CCJs, but specialist lenders are much more flexible. They’ll look beyond the credit score to understand your real story.

At Mortgage Bridge, we work directly with these lenders and can guide you to those most likely to say yes based on your situation.

How Soon After Paying Off a CCJ Can I Apply for a Mortgage?

If you’ve recently paid off your CCJ, that’s a great first step. You don’t necessarily need to wait years after settling it — most lenders will consider you six months to one year after payment, especially if everything else looks stable.

Be sure to keep proof that the CCJ has been satisfied, as credit files sometimes take time to update. We’ll help make sure your documentation is in order before submitting your mortgage application.

Does the Size of the CCJ Matter to Mortgage Lenders?

Yes — it definitely does.

A small CCJ (for example, under £500) from a few years ago is far less concerning than a recent one for several thousand pounds.

Lenders assess the context, not just the numbers. For example:

  • Was it caused by a one-off event (like a dispute or redundancy)?
  • Has your financial situation improved since?
  • Do you have other debts or missed payments?

We often help clients explain the background to a CCJ clearly to lenders, which can make a big difference in how it’s viewed.

What Deposit Do I Need for a Mortgage After a CCJ?

Deposit requirements can vary depending on how recent your CCJ is and your overall credit profile.

If your CCJ is recent or unsatisfied, you may need a larger deposit to offset the perceived risk. The more equity or savings you can put in, the better your chances — and the lower your rate will likely be.

What Kind of Rates Can You Expect After a CCJ?

Rates for CCJ mortgages tend to be slightly higher than standard products at first. That’s simply because lenders see a bit more risk.

However, after a year or two of on-time payments, you can often remortgage to a lower rate. Many of our clients start with a specialist lender, then move to a mainstream one once their credit record improves.

That’s why it’s worth thinking long-term — your first mortgage after a CCJ doesn’t have to be your last or most expensive one.

Can I Get a Mortgage With Multiple CCJs?

It’s possible, yes — though it depends on how many CCJs you have and how recent they are.

If they’re all from several years ago and have been settled, some specialist lenders may still consider you. If they’re recent, you may need to wait a bit longer or offer a larger deposit.

We’ll help you review your credit file and find out which lenders will accept your specific situation. Every case is unique, and it’s often about matching you to the right lender rather than the “perfect” one.

Should I Use a Mortgage Broker If I Have a CCJ?

In short — absolutely, yes.

Applying for a mortgage with a CCJ can be complex, and not all lenders advertise their criteria publicly. Working with a broker like us means you:

  • Get access to specialist lenders not available directly to consumers.
  • Avoid multiple rejections that could damage your credit further.
  • Have your case presented clearly and positively to lenders.

At Mortgage Bridge, we specialise in adverse credit mortgages, including applications involving CCJs, defaults, IVAs, and debt management plans. We know which lenders to approach and how to make your case as strong as possible.

How Can I Improve My Chances of Getting a Mortgage After a CCJ?

Here are a few steps that can make a big difference before you apply:

  1. Check your credit report — Make sure all information is accurate and up to date.
  2. Satisfy the CCJ if possible — Lenders view paid CCJs much more positively.
  3. Keep your accounts in good order — No missed payments or overdraft reliance.
  4. Save a larger deposit — It can open up better rates and more lenders.
  5. Avoid new credit applications — These can temporarily lower your score.

We can also help you review your documents and plan your timing, so your application goes in when it has the best chance of success.

Example: Getting a Mortgage 2 Years After a CCJ

Let’s say you had a CCJ registered two years ago for £1,200, which you paid off within six months. Since then, your credit has been clean, and you’ve saved a 15% deposit.

In that case, there are several lenders who would likely consider your application — potentially at rates only slightly higher than average.

We’ve helped clients in this exact position move from renting to owning, even with past CCJs on their records.

Final Thoughts: You Can Still Get a Mortgage After a CCJ

A CCJ doesn’t have to stop you from owning a home. It might make the journey a little more complicated, but with the right guidance, it’s entirely achievable.

At Mortgage Bridge, we specialise in helping people with adverse credit, including CCJs, defaults, IVAs, and debt management plans, find real mortgage solutions that fit their lives.

If you’re ready to see what’s possible, let’s explore your options together. We’ll review your credit situation, match you with the right lenders, and help you move one step closer to your next home.