What are the key risks and responsibilities to consider before taking sustainability finance?
Guide for UK businesses: assess financial, compliance and reputational risks of sustainability finance. Do due diligence and seek specialist advice.
Christian Strutt
Over how many years can I repay a sustainability loan or hire purchase agreement?
Repayment: sustainability loans 1-10+ years (sometimes 15-20); hire purchase 1-7 years (longer for high-value assets). Match to asset life.
Is there any obligation to proceed if I don’t like the terms I’m offered?
You're not obliged to accept offers. Check when an offer becomes binding, compare quotes, negotiate or seek advice. Quick Quote is free.
How long does approval and payout typically take for green asset finance or hire purchase?
Hire purchase approvals: same day-10 working days; green asset finance: typically 2-6 weeks due to technical checks, certifications and grants.
How is VAT handled on hire purchase for energy equipment, and can VAT be deferred?
VAT on hire purchase for energy equipment is due at supply; interest is VAT-exempt. Deferral isn't automatic; timing can be managed.
How is my business data used, and who will it be shared with?
We use your business data to AI-match you with vetted lenders/brokers, share only as needed (no selling), protect it; request access or deletion.
How fast can I receive an Eligibility Check, Decision in Principle and funding?
Eligibility checks: minutes–24h; Decision in Principle: 24–72h; funding: same day to several weeks depending on product, security and paperwork.
How does your AI matching work to connect my enquiry with suitable providers?
Our AI matches your business to a ranked shortlist of lenders and brokers using rules and ML; secure, consented introductions keep you in control.
Do you support start-ups, sole traders or franchise businesses?
Best Business Loans mainly serves established UK businesses; we rarely support early-stage start-ups or sole traders. Use Quick Quote for eligibility.
Do you support property-backed projects or commercial mortgages for energy upgrades?
We don't provide commercial mortgages or regulated mortgage advice. Best Business Loans matches UK firms to lenders, brokers and alternative finance.
Do you operate across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?
Best Business Loans operates across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland — an AI matching introducer. Get a free Quick Quote for eligibility.
Do you lend directly, or do you introduce me to lenders and brokers?
We don't lend directly. Best Business Loans uses AI to match UK SMEs with lenders and regulated brokers — you control any application and offers.