Hi all.

I have spent some time trawling threads looking for some conclusive information regarding credit reports. Well more specifically - Equifax v Experian. I seem to be finding conflicting advice on old threads as to which report is preferable for Canada.
I am thinking along the lines of something to show the bank to aid opening an account and maybe for prospective landlords too. I'm sure plenty of folks will say they managed all this without a report, but still, it won't hurt to have it.

Can anyone advise which type of report is more acceptable for Canada?

Cheers.

Can't help you with which is better - but we were never asked for either. I brought bank statements from the UK (a couple of years worth) and some bills etc. Our mortgage lender looked at the statements and the utility companies waived a deposit after looking at our bills. But that was all.

I'm sure some one will tell you of their experiences with the reports. I did look into them, but was put off by the validity period.

When I do a credit check on a canadian I always use Equifax. I don't have the choice of Experian with the credit card company I use. As for any expats coming over, I have never asked for them.

I didn't bring ours but most people will not have heard of Experian, Equifax is the better-known name here by far.

Ahh, this Wikipedia entry says Experian is new to the Canadian market, best stick with Equifax to have a chance of your check being useful in any way.

What Helen and Biiiiink said.

We used Equifax and got the report online via their website, (just looked now and we're not seeing a Equifax website hosted in Ireland although I believe they have a significant base in Wexford...so maybe you just use the .co.uk website to order the report???) Here in Canada, our mortgage broker was keen to see the report - he specifically asked for it and for it to be from Equifax. Our car financing people felt more assured about us having seen it as did our bank, although we're not convinced the latter two actually needed to see it.

Kind regards,

Eamonn & Janet.

Many thanks, that's just what I needed.

Cheers all