Can I fund fit-outs and refurbishments for treatment rooms and theatres?
Short answer: yes—specialist finance can cover clinical fit-outs, refurbishments, and equipment
Yes. Many UK lenders and brokers offer finance for clinical fit‑outs and refurbishments, including treatment rooms, operating theatres, dental suites, and minor ops facilities. Best Business Loans does not lend directly, but we use AI matching to introduce you to suitable providers who fund healthcare premises works and medical equipment.
Funding can cover building works, M&E, clinical ventilation, infection‑control finishes, HTM/HBN‑compliant upgrades, specialist doors, lighting, and capital equipment. Structured correctly, you can preserve cash, spread costs over time, and align repayments with patient revenue.
All funding is subject to provider assessment, affordability checks, and your business status. Terms, rates, and eligibility vary by lender and your project profile.
What can be financed in a healthcare fit‑out?
Most commercial providers can fund both “hard” assets and project‑based works linked to creating safe, compliant clinical space. This includes strip‑out, partitions, cleanable wall systems, hygienic flooring, and clinical sinks.
Mechanical and electrical upgrades are often eligible, such as HTM 03‑01 compliant ventilation, medical gases, HEPA filtration, and theatre lighting with dimmable controls. Fire detection and door sets, IPS units, nurse call, and UPS may also be included.
Capital equipment can be financed through asset finance or leasing, including autoclaves, examination couches, patient monitoring, C‑arm tables, LED surgical lamps, suction units, washer disinfectors, and cabinets. IT, AV, and practice management systems are commonly bundled.
Soft elements can sometimes be included, such as design fees, project management, building control fees, and commissioning. Some lenders also fund decontamination rooms, lead‑lined doors for X‑ray areas, and specialist theatre ceilings.
Energy efficiency measures—HVAC upgrades, heat recovery, and LED conversions—are increasingly supported. Sustainability loans may be available where you can evidence measurable energy savings and reduced operating costs.
Funding routes that are commonly used for treatment rooms and theatres
Fit‑out and refurbishment finance
Project‑based finance can fund a defined scope of works from approved contractors under a contract or schedule of works. Drawdowns may be staged against milestones, with lender or broker oversight for risk control.
Terms typically range from 12 to 72 months depending on project size, balance sheet strength, and asset mix. Security and guarantees vary by provider and quantum.
Asset finance and equipment leasing
Hire purchase and finance lease can fund clinical and decontamination equipment, specialist furniture, and some modular systems. This can run alongside a separate fit‑out facility to ring‑fence equipment funding.
End‑of‑term options depend on product type, and you should confirm ownership implications at the outset. Maintenance and service contracts can sometimes be packaged or kept separate.
Unsecured business loans
Unsecured term loans can be used for refurbishments, fees, and professional costs that are hard to classify as assets. They suit established, profitable clinics seeking speed and simplicity.
Repayment terms are shorter than asset‑backed facilities. Personal guarantees are common for SMEs, subject to credit assessment.
VAT and tax funding
VAT loans can help bridge the VAT on large project invoices, easing cashflow before HMRC reclaim. They can run alongside your core funding facility for clarity.
Corporation tax and self‑assessment funding may also support working capital during busy build periods. Use ring‑fenced facilities to keep cashflow predictable.
Revenue‑linked options
For private clinics with card‑based revenue, revenue‑linked finance may be available where repayments flex with takings. This can be useful during staged openings or ramp‑up.
It can be more expensive than traditional loans, so weigh flexibility against total cost. Always model worst‑case seasonality.
Government‑backed support
Depending on eligibility and lender participation, the Growth Guarantee Scheme may support applications for viable UK businesses. Availability, terms, and eligibility are set by participating lenders.
These schemes are designed to support growth and investment, not distressed borrowing. Evidence of viability is essential during underwriting.
How to plan a fundable clinical fit‑out
Define scope, compliance, and costings
Prepare a detailed scope of works aligned to clinical standards such as HTM and HBN where relevant. Include specific ventilation, infection control, and fire strategy requirements.
Obtain fixed or tightly estimated quotes from reputable contractors with healthcare experience. Provide manufacturer specifications for critical equipment and finishes.
Build a realistic timeline with contingencies
Stage your project plan with milestones for strip‑out, first fix, commissioning, and validation. Instrument your timeline for lead items like theatre lighting, ventilation plants, and medical gases.
Include a contingency line for delays, latent defects, and compliance rework. Lenders value risk‑aware plans with credible buffers.
Evidence clinical and commercial viability
Attach your demand forecast, payer mix, referral pathways, and theatre utilisation assumptions. Include consultant or dentist session plans and likely case mix if applicable.
Align revenue ramp‑up with drawdowns and repayment profiles. Show cashflow coverage under conservative scenarios.
Prepare the documents lenders expect
- Latest statutory accounts and recent management accounts
- Business plan with project scope, compliance framework, and revenue forecast
- Supplier quotes, contracts, and programme
- Planning/building control status and risk assessments
- Bank statements and aged debtor/creditor reports
- Director ID and proof of address for due diligence
Well‑prepared packs speed decisions and can improve outcomes. Missing information is the most common cause of delay.
Eligibility, timescales, and what to expect
Typical eligibility indicators
Limited companies or LLPs trading 12 months or more often see the best outcomes. Turnover, profitability, and debt service coverage influence terms.
Healthcare entities—dental, veterinary, private day surgery, physiotherapy, and aesthetic clinics—are commonly funded. Significant adverse credit can limit options but may not be a deal‑breaker with strong mitigants.
Timescales and drawdown
Indicative decisions can be fast when packs are complete, with some lenders returning in 24–72 hours for straightforward cases. Complex theatre builds with staged drawdowns take longer but benefit from structured reviews.
Equipment finance often completes faster than construction‑linked projects. Start early so funding aligns with contractor start dates and lead times.
Costs and structures
Costs vary by risk, term, security, and the proportion of soft vs hard costs. Asset‑backed equipment deals are often cheaper than unsecured project loans.
Choose between fixed or variable rates, and verify any fees, documentation charges, and early settlement terms. Always compare the total cost of finance, not headline rates alone.
Best Business Loans—how we help
We do not provide loans ourselves. We analyse your profile and introduce you to lenders or brokers active in clinical fit‑outs and theatre projects.
You stay in control and choose whether to proceed. It is free to submit an enquiry, and there is no obligation to accept an offer.
Practical tips for a smoother approval
Strengthen compliance from day one
Reference relevant guidance such as HTM 03‑01 (ventilation), HTM 05 (fire safety), infection control specifications, and water safety schemes. Use healthcare‑experienced contractors and document competence.
Share your validation and commissioning plan for critical systems. Demonstrable compliance reduces perceived risk for funders.
Separate equipment and build costs where possible
Use asset finance for equipment and a project facility for construction works. This can reduce cost and give clearer security positions for lenders.
For IT and software, check whether licences and maintenance can be included. Treat consumables separately to avoid complicating approvals.
Model cashflow with realism
Assume phased opening and conservative occupancy or list utilisation. Include VAT timing, staff onboarding, and training windows in your model.
Consider a VAT facility to avoid short‑term cash strain. Time drawdowns to supplier milestones to keep working capital healthy.
Work with experienced healthcare funders
Specialist lenders understand clinical compliance, validation, and the need for clean‑down and commissioning time. They can structure staged drawdowns and ring‑fence soft costs appropriately.
Our AI matching helps you find providers who are active in your niche. You save time approaching multiple firms individually.
FAQs about funding treatment rooms and theatres
Can finance cover design, compliance, and professional fees?
Yes, many lenders will include architects, MEP design, compliance consultancy, building control, and commissioning fees within a defined project scope. The split between hard assets and soft costs may affect pricing.
Clear documentation and milestone evidence help unlock staged funding for these items.
Can I fund VAT on the project?
Specialist VAT loans can cover VAT on eligible invoices, easing cashflow until reclaim. These are typically short‑term facilities separate from your core funding.
Availability depends on your VAT status and lender policy.
Do I need to be CQC registered before applying?
Not necessarily, but your plan should set out the regulatory path, timelines, and responsible persons. Lenders will expect credible evidence that registration and compliance will be achieved before clinical use.
Provide your policies, risk assessments, and a draft schedule for inspections if applicable.
Can charitable or NHS‑contracted providers apply?
Some lenders will consider not‑for‑profit entities and organisations with NHS contracts. Structures and eligibility vary, so a tailored approach is needed.
Be ready with governance documentation and contract evidence.
Can second‑hand equipment be financed?
Yes, in many cases, especially where provenance, condition, and remaining useful life are documented. Vendors should provide warranties or service histories if available.
Expect tighter lender due diligence on reconditioned assets.
Will I need a personal guarantee?
Personal guarantees are common for SME borrowing, particularly on unsecured facilities. The requirement depends on facility size, risk, and security.
Discuss options early so you understand your obligations.
How Best Business Loans works—quick, clear, and people‑first
Best Business Loans is an independent introducer. We use AI‑driven matching and a network of UK lenders and brokers to connect healthcare providers with suitable finance options.
The process is simple: complete a short Quick Quote, we analyse your profile, and we introduce you to providers who are active in your sector. You compare options and decide what fits your plans and cashflow.
We do not promise the lowest rate every time, but we focus on relevance, reliability, and transparency. It is free to submit an enquiry, and there is no obligation to proceed.
Next steps—get a Quick Quote or eligibility check
Ready to explore funding for your treatment rooms or theatre refurbishment? Share your project scope, quotes, and timelines for a faster match.
Submit your Quick Quote for a Decision in Principle or an eligibility view. We will connect you with providers who understand clinical builds and equipment funding.
If your project involves construction trades, you may also find our page on building services loans useful for context on contractor‑led works.
Compliance, clarity, and fair presentation
Important information: Best Business Loans (BestBusinessLoans.ai) is an independent introducer, not a lender, credit broker, or adviser. We introduce UK businesses to third‑party lenders or brokers who are authorised where required.
Any funding is subject to status, eligibility, affordability checks, and the provider’s criteria. Terms, rates, fees, and approval times vary; nothing on this page constitutes financial advice or a recommendation.
Think carefully before securing debts against assets. Late or missed payments can affect your business credit profile and make future borrowing more difficult.
Key takeaways
- Yes—clinical fit‑outs and theatre refurbishments can be financed, including building works, M&E, compliance, and equipment.
- Common routes include fit‑out finance, asset finance, equipment leasing, unsecured loans, and VAT facilities.
- Well‑prepared scopes, healthcare‑experienced contractors, and clear compliance plans improve funding outcomes.
- Separate equipment from build costs where possible to reduce cost and simplify security.
- Best Business Loans introduces you to suitable providers—fast, transparent, and with no obligation to proceed.
About Best Business Loans
BestBusinessLoans.ai helps established UK businesses find suitable finance providers using AI‑driven matching. We commonly support healthcare, dental, veterinary, and private medical providers planning clinical upgrades.
Contact: hello@bestbusinessloans.ai | www.bestbusinessloans.ai. Updated: October 2025.