Tool theft: Hammering Home Top Tips for Tool Security

The issue of tool theft isn’t new but it’s a topic that’s gaining traction, with tradies across the country fighting to get their voices heard – 100s gathered in London to protest for fixes just earlier this year.

While the Theft of Tools of Trade Bill currently tabled in parliament aims to bring harsher sentences to those who commit tool theft, we’re here to look at how you can prevent being a victim of it in the first place.

The reality of tool theft

It’s a long-running problem that’s only increased over recent years, described by many as going past standard theft and affecting their entire livelihoods. On The Tools published their own report in 2022 that highlights the reality of tool theft:

• 78% of tradespeople had experienced tool theft
• 5% had tools stolen from their van outside their home
• 1% recovered stolen tools
• 13% had to pay for damage to repair their vehicle from theft

As recently as May 2025, Met officers recovered around 1,500+ tools stolen in one operation, worth approximately £150,000.

Preventing & Mitigating Tool Theft 

Some of these numbers might be a shock to the system but recent stories show it is possible to prevent, or at least make recovery of stolen tools more likely. A few tips from us:

• Storage – make sure you store tools securely, especially overnight. Take them inside your home if you can.
• Markings – mark up your tools with your name and address. You could use either a permanent marker or a UV pen.
• Logs – keep logs of your tools including photos, serial numbers, and purchase receipts/invoices. This’ll make it easier to track what you’ve got/what’s stolen and help value your tools (useful for insurance claims).
• Trackers – consider using GPS tags for larger or more expensive tools so you know where they are at all times.

One of the most important tips above is how you store them:

1) it can make or break any preventative measures you have in place

2) it can impact insurance claims if your tools are stolen.

Advice for storing Tools in your Van 

Many tools are stored in a van at some point during the day. If you do store your tools in your vehicle there’s a few things to keep in mind:

• Try not to leave tools in your van overnight

Thefts from vans make up a large proportion of overall reported tool thefts. It’s typically easier to break into a vehicle, so while they’ll inevitably be in your van during the day, try to store them in the home overnight if possible.

• Install extra security

For when tools are stored in your van, install extra measures like a slam lock, fixed storage ‘vaults’ and alarms – you can get help with lock installations from an MLA Approved Van Lock Installer! Look for locks and storage products that are Sold Secure approved, as they’re independently tested and rated for resistance against theft. These certifications can also support insurance claims by showing you’ve taken recognised steps to secure your tools.

If you’re a locksmith, you may be interested in our Van Lock Fitting Course, which teaches you how to install these locks.

• Check insurance requirements

Your insurance policy might cover tools, but you should check any conditions or exclusions. Some policies won’t cover claims where a vehicle is left unlocked, tools are left in an open cargo area of the vehicle, there’s no sign of forced entry, or the vehicle isn’t in “roadworthy” condition.

What insurance covers tools?  

We’ve mentioned insurance a few times and you might be thinking “but what insurance can cover my tools?”. Some believe their home insurance will cover their tools but that isn’t necessarily true – you should always check your policy or with your provider to be sure.

Some ‘trades’ insurance policies do include tools cover but also double check the cover limit matches the value of your tools and where you’re covered for (home, vehicle, building site, overnight in a van etc.).

Kingsbridge’s Trades Insurance includes Goods & Tools cover as standard, with up to £2.5k cover at no extra cost (limit can be increased), claims paid out on tools stolen from vans overnight and nil excess on most professions. It also includes other important covers like public liability and employer’s liability in one policy.

If you don’t already have tools cover or aren’t sure if it’s for you, call 01242 808740 to speak to a Kingsbridge expert or go straight to getting a quote

Recommend Reading

• Join the Master Locksmiths Association
• Why use an MLA Approved Locksmith
• Courses to become a locksmith