What Equipment Can I Finance?
Almost all arboriculture and tree surgery equipment can be financed: aerial work platforms (AWPs) and cherry pickers, woodchippers (tow-behind and self-propelled), stump grinders, timber cranes and trailers, 4x4 pick-up trucks and tipper vans, and specialist climbing and rigging equipment (limited finance options - usually under £10,000).
Hire Purchase vs Operating Lease for Tree Surgeons
Hire purchase (HP) is the most common structure for specialist equipment: you make fixed monthly payments and own the equipment at the end of the term. Best for AWPs, chippers and stump grinders you plan to keep for 5+ years.
Operating lease is better for vans and pick-up trucks: lower monthly payments, you hand the vehicle back at the end of the term, and maintenance can be included. Useful if you replace vehicles on a 2-3 year cycle.
How Fast Can I Get Finance?
For standard arborist equipment under £80,000 (a van-mounted AWP, a self-propelled chipper, a stump grinder), indicative terms are typically available the same working day. Formal offer within 24-48 hours. Payout within 3-5 working days.
Larger assets (£80,000+) or used equipment with patchy documentation take longer - typically 3-7 working days.
Do I Need to Have Filed Accounts?
Most lenders require at least one set of filed accounts (or management accounts if recently incorporated). Sole traders provide an SA302 self-assessment tax return instead.
Start-ups (less than 12 months trading) have fewer lender options but can still access finance - often with a higher deposit (20-30%) and a personal guarantee from the director.
What About Bad Credit?
Adverse credit does not automatically disqualify you. Lenders assess the severity, recency and type of adverse credit - a default from 3 years ago is treated very differently from an undischarged bankruptcy. We work with specialist lenders who assess the full picture. The starting point is always a soft credit search - no impact on your credit file.