Why timing and the right funding matter for fit-outs

A well-planned fit-out can transform a premises and unlock revenue quickly. Conversely, delays or under-funded projects lead to extra costs, missed opening dates and strained cashflow. The right finance lets you: preserve working capital, stagger payments to contractors, include VAT or equipment costs and open on schedule.

If you need funds in place before signing contractors, start with a quick eligibility check: Free Eligibility Check. Completing the form is free and won’t affect your credit score. Credit checks may be carried out later by lenders if you proceed.

Understanding fit-out finance: scope and typical costs

What counts as a fit-out?

Fit-outs range from simple decoration and new shelving in retail to full Category B office refurbishments or restaurant kitchen installations. Common elements include contractor labour, M&E works, shopfronts, furniture, specialist equipment and professional fees (architect, planning).

Typical project sizes

Project costs vary widely. Small retail or café refurbs may start around £10,000–£30,000, while complex multi-site rollouts or restaurant fit-outs commonly run from £100,000 to £1m+. We introduce matches for a broad range of sizes — tell us your project value in the enquiry form.

Want a deeper overview of fit-out funding types and uses? Learn more about fit-out finance on our dedicated pillar page: fit-out finance.

Funding options we can introduce

Different products suit different budgets, timeframes and risk profiles. Below is a quick guide — your match will depend on the specifics of your business and project.

Unsecured business loans

• How it works: Fixed-term loan with set repayments.
• Amounts/terms: From around £10,000 upwards; terms typically 1–5 years.
• Pros: Quick to arrange when credit profile is strong; no asset security in many cases.
• Cons: Higher rates than secured options for larger amounts.

Secured fit-out finance / commercial mortgages

• How it works: Larger facilities secured against property or other assets.
• Amounts/terms: From tens of thousands to millions; longer terms available.
• Pros: Lower rates and higher maximums.
• Cons: Longer underwriting and legal process; security required.

Asset & equipment finance (leasing / hire purchase)

• How it works: Spread cost of equipment over term; ownership may transfer at end.
• Best for: Catering equipment, furniture, IT systems.

Staged drawdown / contractor-backed facilities

• How it works: Funds released against invoices or certified project stages.
• Best for: Larger contractor-managed projects to ensure funds match work in progress.

Merchant cash advance (MCA)

• How it works: Repayments linked to card/EPOS takings. Faster approval for hospitality and retail with strong card turnover.
• Considerations: Higher cost; suitability depends on revenue profile.

Quick product comparison

Eligibility & documentation

While each lender has its own rules, common criteria include:

• UK-registered company (limited companies and multi-site operators).
• Minimum facility sizes — we typically introduce enquiries from £10,000 and above.
• Recent management accounts, business bank statements and VAT returns (if applicable).
• Signed lease or purchase agreement, contractor quotes or supplier invoices for the fit-out.
• Director ID and proof of address; in some cases director guarantees may be requested.

Start-ups without trading history can sometimes access funding where forward contracts, franchise agreements or confirmed leases provide revenue certainty — details matter, so declare them in the enquiry.

How our matching service works

1. Tell us about your project: Complete a short enquiry — it takes a few minutes. Get Quote Now.
2. We shortlist partners: We match your needs with lenders/brokers who understand fit-outs and commercial projects.
3. Receive outreach: Selected partners typically contact you within hours to discuss options and required documents.
4. Compare offers: Review terms, timelines and costs with no obligation to proceed.

Fast Business Loans is an introducer — we don’t lend money or give regulated financial advice. Our service is free to use. Completing the enquiry will not affect your credit score; credit checks may be performed later by lenders if you choose to apply.

Sector-specific use cases

Retail & showrooms

Typical need: new shopfit, shopfront, fixtures and displays. Structure: unsecured loans for small refits; secured or staged facilities for multi-site rollouts.

Restaurants, bars & cafés

Typical need: kitchen equipment, ventilation, extraction, seating. Structure: equipment finance for kit, staged contractor funding for works; MCAs may suit strong card-take businesses.

Offices & professional spaces

Typical need: Cat B fit-out, M&E upgrades, IT network installs. Structure: unsecured or secured loans depending on scale; leaseback options for high-cost equipment.

Healthcare & clinics

Typical need: specialist fixtures, sterile areas or clinical equipment. Structure: asset finance for equipment plus tailored term loans for building works where necessary.

Cost planning and cashflow tips

• Obtain at least two contractor quotes and ask for staged payment schedules.
• Include contingency — typically 10–15% of project cost.
• Factor VAT and consider short-term bridging for VAT timing mismatches; disclose VAT status in the enquiry.
• Align repayment profile with expected uplift in revenue (e.g., rental income or increased sales).

These practical steps improve lender confidence and speed up the funding process.

Responsible borrowing

Take time to compare total cost, fees and repayment schedules. Fast Business Loans introduces potential lenders and brokers for you to discuss terms directly. We recommend seeking independent financial or accounting advice before committing to any loan.

Why use Fast Business Loans for fit-out funding?

• Save time — submit one enquiry and get matched to suitable partners.
• Sector-aware matching — we aim to connect you with lenders who understand fit-outs.
• Free & no obligation — you decide whether to proceed with any lender.
• Quick responses — partners often contact enquirers within hours during business days.

Ready to compare quotes? Get Started Free Eligibility Check. Free to use. Completing this form won’t affect your credit score. Credit checks may be required by the lender if you proceed.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly can fit-out finance be arranged?

Simple unsecured facilities can be agreed within days once documents are supplied. Secured or complex multi-site facilities typically take several weeks.

Can I fund VAT and professional fees?

Many lenders will consider VAT, architect and professional fees as part of the project cost where supported by invoices or quotes — disclose these on your enquiry.

Is there funding for multi-site rollouts?

Yes. Lenders and brokers often provide facility structures for rollouts, including master facilities with individual site drawdowns.

Will enquiring affect my credit score?

No — our enquiry process is for matching only and does not impact your credit score. Lenders may run checks later if you opt to proceed.

What if my business credit history isn’t perfect?

Because we work with a broad panel, some partners specialise in lending to businesses with less-than-perfect credit. Provide full details in your enquiry for the best match.

What’s the minimum loan size?

We introduce businesses seeking fit-out funding of £10,000 and above.

Ready to unlock your new space?

Complete our quick enquiry and get matched with lenders and brokers who can help fund your fit-out. It’s free, fast and without obligation. Start Your Free Eligibility Check. Completing this form won’t affect your credit score. Credit checks may be carried out by lenders if you choose to apply.

Important: Fast Business Loans introduces businesses to lenders and brokers; we do not provide loans or regulated financial advice. Rates, terms and availability are subject to individual circumstances and lender approval.