A default is a listing of a party who has neglected to pay an outstanding amount to another party. Companies who are most likely to list defaulting parties are:

  • Financial Institutions;
  • Medical Practitioners;
  • Hospitals;
  • Chain Stores, etc.

A default usually remains listed against your name for 3 years, but in certain cases it can be removed sooner. It is possible to remove a default listed by a medical practitioner or hospitals, provided that the outstanding debt is paid up in full and the medical practitioner or hospital consents to the removal of the default.

Companies who are members of the Consumer Credit Association do not remove listings even if the debt is paid up in full. The reason that the Consumer Credit Association gives for this is that they are bound by law. Most of the chain stores are members of the Consumer Credit Association.

If you find yourself in such a situation, it is advisable to immediately seek legal assistance in order to negotiate with the other party to have the listing removed, or updated to “paid up in full”, which will then remain listed for a period of 3 years from the date of submission.