Service Station Finance

What service station finance covers

Service station finance covers commercial lending for the purchase, refinance or equity release of service station properties. This may include freehold going concern transactions (property plus operating business), straight commercial property purchases, leasehold going concern finance and refinancing from specialist lenders to mainstream banks where the profile supports it.

Service station lending is a specialist area. Lender appetite, LVR, assessment criteria and environmental requirements vary significantly across the market. Early engagement with the right lender — before contracts are signed — is important.

How lenders assess service station loans

• Property type and location — freehold vs leasehold, urban vs regional
• Fuel volumes and fuel company supply agreements
• Operating history and business financials
• Environmental assessment — EPA report requirements and fuel tank status
• Property valuation on a freehold going concern basis
• Borrower profile — industry experience, financial position, existing debt
• LVR — varies significantly by lender and property type
• Refinance purpose and equity release rationale

How Bridle Partners helps

• Identifying lenders with appetite for service station transactions
• Reviewing the property and business position before approach to lenders
• Working through EPA and environmental report requirements
• Structuring and presenting the application clearly
• Managing the process through to approval and settlement
• Working alongside your solicitor, accountant and valuer where required

Frequently asked questions

What is a freehold going concern service station loan?

A freehold going concern loan covers both the property (land and improvements) and the operating business. Lenders assess both the security value and the business trading position. EPA and environmental requirements are often relevant to service station lending.

Can I refinance a service station from a specialist lender to a major bank?

In many cases, yes, depending on the operating history, property valuation, borrower profile and lender appetite. We have assisted clients in refinancing from specialist lenders to major banks where the business and security profile supported the transition.

Do I need an EPA report for service station finance?

Lender requirements vary. Some lenders require environmental assessment due to fuel tank storage and potential contamination risk. We work through these requirements with clients and lenders as part of the application process.

What LVR can I expect on a service station loan?

LVRs vary significantly by lender, property type, location, trading history and borrower profile. Service station lending is a specialist area and lender appetite differs considerably across the market.