CONSUMERS are more likely to have a joint mortgage with a partner or spouse than on their own, according to online credit information provider Equifax.
This, says the organisation, highlights the importance of being honest with your partner about your financial situation.
Neil Munroe, of Equifax, says: "It is vital that anyone planning to apply for a mortgage with a partner has discussed their financial status before entering this agreement.
"Although it is positive that over half of people who do not have a mortgage say they know their partner has a good credit rating, it is crucial that this is confirmed by each partner checking their credit report – and perhaps even sharing it with each other.
"Lenders look at all the financial commitments someone has when new credit is applied for – and if there are joint financial agreements they are more than likely to look at the credit history of the partner, too."
The Equifax Credit Report is accessible for 30 days free simply by logging onto www.equifax.co.uk. After 30 days, you can cancel or continue the service at £9.95 per month.