Defaults stay on your credit file for a period of six years from the date that the default was added in the UK. During this time, the default will have a negative impact on your credit score and may make it more difficult for you to obtain credit or borrow money. However, as time passes and you make consistent payments on your other credit products, the impact of the default on your credit score will diminish. After the six-year period has passed, the default should be automatically removed from your credit file, and your credit score should start to improve. However, it’s important to note that not all lenders or creditors use the same credit reporting agencies or credit scoring models, so the impact of the default may vary depending on the lender or creditor that you are applying to.