For tradespeople across the UK, tool theft is more than just an inconvenience. It can bring work to a halt and rack up thousands in replacement costs. Tempcover carried out a survey of 500 UK tradespeople to explore how concerned they are about tool theft, what impact it can have and whether they are taking the necessary precautions to protect themselves.
Over seven in 10 respondents (72%) reported having had their tools stolen, either directly or because their van was stolen with tools inside. More than a quarter (27%) admitted that they have experienced tool theft multiple times. When asked about the cost of replacing stolen tools, the average financial loss was £3,092.
Of those who had experienced tool theft, nearly all (96%) said they changed their security habits, including taking tools inside overnight, using lockable toolboxes, and upgrading van security.
A vast majority of tradespeople (88%) reported being concerned about tool theft, yet many continue to leave their valuable equipment vulnerable. When asked where they usually store their tools overnight, 28% said in a locked vehicle. Experts recommend avoiding leaving tools in vehicles overnight to reduce the risk of opportunist crime.
Over half of respondents (53%) keep their tools in a locked garage or workshop, 41% store them at home, and 22% keep them on site. Among those who have never had their tools stolen, nearly half (48%) have not changed their security habits despite the ongoing risks.
Tradespeople take different approaches to insuring their tools. Over a quarter (27%) have a dedicated tools insurance policy, while 22% are covered as part of their van or vehicle contents insurance, and 13% rely on home contents insurance. Smaller numbers are insured through their employer (8%) or another type of policy (2%), and 6% have only partial coverage. Around one in five respondents (18%) do not currently have insurance for their tools, indicating that while many tradespeople have some level of protection, gaps in coverage still exist.
Claire Wills-Mckissick of Tempcover adds: “Our research highlights that while most tradespeople are concerned about tool theft, many are still leaving themselves exposed. Whether it’s your own van, a company vehicle, or a borrowed van with temporary insurance, leaving tools unattended or overnight can put them at risk, and potentially invalidate an insurance claim. Simple measures like taking tools inside, using lockable toolboxes, keeping a detailed inventory, and marking equipment, can make a real difference. Planning ahead and taking these precautions doesn’t just protect your tools; it can also help prevent costly delays and financial loss.”
