If you have a County Court Judgment (CCJ), you may be worried that finding a landlord willing to rent to you will be difficult.
The good news is that some landlords may still consider tenants with a CCJ, especially where the debt is older, has been paid, or your wider finances are stable.
However, acceptance will often depend on the landlord, the property, and your individual circumstances.
In this guide, we’ll explain what landlords may look at, when a CCJ may matter less, and what may improve your chances of being accepted.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Individual landlord criteria vary, so seek professional advice if you are unsure how a CCJ may affect your situation.
Which landlords accept tenants with a CCJ? (Quick answer)
👉 There is no single list of landlords who accept tenants with a CCJ.
However, some landlords may be more flexible than others, particularly if:
- the CCJ is older
- it has been paid and marked as satisfied
- the amount was relatively small
- you have stable income
- you have a good rental history
- you can provide a guarantor
- you can offer rent upfront (if affordable)
👉 Every landlord may assess risk differently.
Are private landlords more flexible?
Sometimes, yes.
Private landlords may occasionally take a more individual view of your circumstances than larger letting agencies.
They may look at:
- your current income
- employment stability
- references from previous landlords
- how long ago the CCJ happened
- whether it has been resolved
However:
👉 policies vary from landlord to landlord.
What about letting agents?
Letting agents often use referencing systems that may include credit checks.
This may reveal:
- CCJs
- defaults
- missed payments
- affordability concerns
Because of this:
👉 some letting agents may apply stricter criteria.
That said, not every CCJ will automatically lead to rejection.
👉 See our guide on can a landlord refuse to rent to you because of a CCJ.
Does a paid CCJ help?
👉 Often, yes.
If the CCJ has been paid and marked as satisfied, some landlords may view this more positively than an unpaid judgment.
It can show the issue has been dealt with.
👉 Learn more in our guide on whether a paid CCJ can be removed.
How old is the CCJ?Age may matter:
Recent CCJ
A recent CCJ may raise greater concerns.
Older CCJ
If several years have passed and your finances are now stable:
👉 landlords may place less weight on it.
👉 See our guide on how long a CCJ stays on your credit file.
Example scenario
Applicant A:
- CCJ for £300
- paid two years ago
- stable employment
- strong affordability
- positive landlord reference
👉 may still be accepted by some landlords
Applicant B:
- recent unpaid CCJ
- irregular income
- recent missed payments
- no guarantor
👉 may find acceptance more difficult
How to improve your chances:
1. Be honest if asked
If a credit check is likely, honesty may help build trust.
2. Offer a guarantor
A guarantor may reassure a landlord.
3. Offer rent upfront (if affordable)
Some landlords may feel more comfortable with advance payment.
4. Check your credit file
Make sure records are accurate.
👉 See our guide on how to check your credit report.
5. Correct any errors
Mistakes on your file may unfairly affect decisions.
👉 Learn how in our guide on how to fix errors on your credit file.
6. Improve your wider credit profile
Strong recent financial behaviour may help over time.
👉 See our guide on how to improve your credit score.
7. Seek independent advice if needed
If debt is affecting wider parts of your finances, advice may help you understand your options.
- Citizens Advice – Can explain your rights and available options.
- National Debtline – Offers practical guidance on CCJs, debt recovery, and improving your financial position.
Can you still rent with a CCJ?
Often, yes – depending on your circumstances.
👉 Read our guide on can you rent with a CCJ for a fuller explanation.
Key takeaway
There is no fixed list of landlords who accept tenants with a CCJ, but some may still consider your application – particularly if the CCJ is older, paid, and your wider finances are stable. Showing affordability and reliability may improve your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will all landlords reject a CCJ?
No – landlords may assess applications differently.
Are private landlords more flexible?
Sometimes – some may consider your wider circumstances rather than applying strict referencing criteria.
Does paying a CCJ help?
Often yes – a satisfied CCJ may be viewed more positively.
Can a guarantor improve my chances?
Possibly – a guarantor may provide reassurance.
Need further support?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure what to do next, you’re not alone — there are free, trusted organisations that can offer confidential advice and support.
- StepChange Debt Charity – Free, impartial debt advice and personalised support with managing and repaying debt.
- Citizens Advice – Independent advice on your rights, dealing with creditors, and resolving disputes.
- National Debtline – Clear guidance and practical tools, including template letters and advice on handling enforcement action.
- Samaritans – Confidential emotional support if you’re feeling stressed or anxious about your situation.
These organisations offer free support and are not affiliated with this website.