Can I get equipment finance with adverse credit or past CCJs?
Short answer
Yes — it is often possible to secure equipment finance even if your business or director has adverse credit or County Court Judgments (CCJs). Lenders vary widely in appetite and criteria, so some specialist funders and brokers can consider applications that mainstream lenders decline. Start with a targeted eligibility check or Quick Quote to see which providers might consider your case.
What lenders look for
Lenders assess more than just credit scores. They review the asset being financed, its age and resale value, the business’s trading history, turnover and existing liabilities.
Secured equipment finance that uses the asset as security is less risky for lenders. This often improves chances when credit history is poor or when there are past CCJs.
Types of equipment finance that may help
Hire purchase and lease agreements are common routes and can be more accessible for businesses with adverse records. Asset-backed loans and specialist leasing providers often work with borrowers who have non-standard credit profiles.
Some brokers and lenders offer short-term or seasonal finance and flexible terms that reflect cashflow patterns. These options can make approvals more likely even with past credit issues.
Practical steps to improve your chances
Prepare clear documents: recent accounts, bank statements, a schedule of assets and details of the CCJs (status and amounts). Being transparent about adverse items reduces delays and builds trust with underwriters.
Consider using a broker experienced in adverse-credit cases; they can present your application to multiple lenders. You can start by submitting a Quick Quote or Decision in Principle to understand likely outcomes before a full application.
Alternatives if standard equipment finance is unavailable
If mainstream routes are closed, consider vendor finance, peer-to-peer lenders that accept higher risk, or refinancing existing assets. Invoice finance or a business overdraft may provide interim working capital to support equipment investment.
Leasing older or refurbished equipment and staggered payments can lower upfront cost and improve lender appetite. Speak to an adviser to compare total cost and suitability for your business plan.
How Best Business Loans can help
Best Business Loans does not provide finance directly but connects UK businesses to lenders and brokers who specialise in equipment and asset finance. We use AI matching to identify providers that may accept applications with past CCJs or adverse credit and will signpost realistic options.
Submit a Quick Quote for a free, no-obligation eligibility check and Decision in Principle. For more on the types of equipment funding available, see our equipment finance guide: https://bestbusinessloans.ai/loan/equipment-finance/.