Equifax is partnering with rent reporting platform CreditLadder.co.uk, to include rental payment data in Equifax credit assessments.

The firms claim the arrangement moves to level the playing field between people with a mortgage, whose payments have historically been included in the credit files, and the three in ten Brits who currently rent their home.

Tenants typically have ‘thin’ credit files due to a limited borrowing history, and are therefore expected to see a benefit from the addition of on-time rental payments in their credit files.

Janice Rudd, data director at Equifax, said: “The inclusion of rental data in credit assessments is a huge lift to improve financial inclusion and fairer access to the right financial products. This data insight provides lenders with a much more reflective picture of the amount renters can afford to borrow.

“Renters who make full and timely monthly payments should see a significant benefit in proving their ability to repay a commitment, just like mortgage payers. We’re pleased to work with CreditLadder to unlock better financial outcomes for consumers and lenders alike.”

Sheraz Dar, CEO at CreditLadder.co.uk, added: “CreditLadder’s mission is to deliver financial fairness to the UK’s millions of tenants, helping them access the credit they need, for example when they want to buy their own home.

“As one of the world’s leading credit reference agencies, working with Equifax to add tenants’ payment track records to their reports is a major enhancement for our users, and for our platform.”