With a bill currently going through Parliament that aims to enforce harsher punishment for tool thieves, it’s becoming more important than ever to raise awareness. In fact, 100's of tradespeople from across the UK gathered in London earlier this year to do just that, protesting for fixes for what’s being described as a tool theft “plague”. This only highlights the impact the rising issue is having across the nation.

It’s a problem that’s gone under the radar for a long time – too long. But the harsh reality of its impact is starting to be noticed, shown by the Theft of Tools of Trade Bill (tabled by MP Amanda Martin), scheduled for its 2^nd reading as we speak.

The Scale Of The Tool Theft Problem

Now, tool theft isn’t a new problem, but it’s unfortunately grown in severity over recent years. A report published by On The Tools in 2022 spotlights shocking statistics that highlights the grim reality of tool theft:

• 78% of tradespeople had their tools stolen
• 83% didn’t have tool insurance at the time of theft
• 1% of tradespeople fully recovered stolen tools
• 58% of tradespeople had experienced tool theft in the year previous
• 52% estimated the value of stolen goods to be between £1,000-£4,999

And that’s just in 2022. Just last year Kent Police recovered stolen tools believed to be worth over £1 million. The recovery of the tools was thanks to the victim who had taken precautions to prevent more incidents, opting to attach trackers to their tools (after previously being targeted).

And more recently (May 2025), Met officers recovered around 1,500 tools worth £150,000 with a further 159 tools seized during another property search.

How To Prevent Tool Theft

These stats might paint a stark picture of the reality of tool theft but the stories from Kent & Met police highlight it’s possible to prevent it happening to more tradespeople. Those who own or look after tools should:

✔ Store them securely: Store tools somewhere secure overnight, remembering to remove them from vehicles (where possible).

✔ Log your tools: Note the serial numbers of your tools and be sure to take photos to make it easier to identify them.

✔ Use tool tags: If you can, use tags on your higher value tools so they’re trackable.

✔ Mark them: Use paint pens or sharpies to write your name/company and address on your tools. Seal with lacquer or similar to make sure your markings don’t wear off with use.

✔ Secure your vehicle: If storing tools in your vehicles is essential, install security cameras inside your van and consider fitting it with more secure locks. Parking in sight of CCTV or your home video doorbell is also a good idea.

✔ Have the right cover: In the event the worst happens, having cover can provide much-needed protection. Look into insurance that includes your tools.

Why You Should Insure Your Tools

Tool Box Talks For Electricians says it best when they describe insurance as your business' “secret weapon”. It can be a safety net in many ways, like:

1. Keeping you covered: From tool theft to on-site injuries and knocked-over flowerpots, your insurance can step in to cover the costs.
2. Taking a weight off your shoulders: It can be stressful enough running your own business without being kept awake at night by the ‘what ifs’. When you’ve got the safety of insurance under your belt, you can focus on the job at hand (literally).
3. Build trust with your clients: Many successful businesses are built on trust. Having insurance shows clients you take your work seriously, giving them confidence you’ve got everything covered (and not just their furniture!).

There’s a common myth that home insurance covers tools in case of tool theft. That’s just a false sense of security. The reality is, yes, some home insurance may cover your tools, but a lot of insurance packages don’t - and there’s other cover to consider.

For example, our own BESA Members are required to hold public liability, employer’s liability and professional indemnity cover. Having multiple types of cover means you (and your business) are protected in every way you need.

That’s why we’ve partnered with Kingsbridge, one of the UK’s leading business insurance providers.

Introducing Kingsbridge’s Trades Insurance

Kingsbridge knows you have enough to worry about without navigating the world of insurance. That’s why they make it simple to get the cover you need.

With their Trades Insurance, you can have a whole toolbox (excuse the pun), containing all the cover you need for every eventuality - including tool theft. Their policies combine Public Liability, Goods and Tools, and Employers’ Liability all in one package, with the ability to add optional cover like Professional Indemnity cover.

Plus, there’s a few perks like:

• Up to £2.5k tools and equipment cover included as standard at no extra cost
• Next business day payout on accepted tools claims
• Claims paid out on tools stolen from your van overnight
• Nil excess on most professions covered
• Real support from in-house dedicated experts
• No hidden fees

If you think Trades Insurance could be for you, you can call 01242 808740 to speak to a Kingsbridge expert or go straight to getting a quote.