As an estate agent myself (boo, hiss!), the credit check basically ensures that you can actually afford the rent. Ms B is 100% correct in all her info. From personal experience of renting, they will want to see that you can cover all costs (rent, bills etc), comfortably. It is difficult with gaining a credit history - the best way is to get a credit/store card. Use it, pay it off, etc, etc, to show you are a responsible borrower.