Top tips to keep your tools safe

Over 40,000 cases of tool theft are reported to UK police every year. Which means theft of tools and equipment is one of the biggest risks for tradespeople.

My husband is a plumber, and perhaps should be thankful that he’s only had his tools nicked twice in the last 10 years. Not only did it take years to build his dream tool collection, but it also had a huge financial impact as he was unable to work. Not to mention the hassle, cost and time to replace the tools, as well as the damage to his van.

With many stolen tools ending up at car boot sales and online markets all over the country, there is call for tougher action over tool theft and resale. But what can you do to prevent it in the first place?

Here are my top tips to keep your tools safe:

Vehicle security

• Get an alarm or upgrade your alarm. Ensure your vehicle is locked and alarmed whilst unattended.
• Keep items in the vehicle out of view.
• A steering lock is a good visual.
• Consider a van vault or a steel tool chest bolted to the vehicle floor.
• Consider a sticker saying ‘no tools kept on board’.

Site security

• Park in a well-lit space with CCTV, as close to site as possible.
• Never leave on-site tools unattended.
• Keep tools out of sight or locked away in a secure tool box or chest, to deter opportunists.

At home

• If possible, take your tools off your vehicle at night and store in a safe place.
• Keep your van key in a metal container or Faraday bag to help prevent key fob hacking.
• Park in your garage or on the driveway if possible. Park with rear or sliding doors against a fence or wall.
• Consider installing a parking post on the drive that can be locked upright.

But what if your tools do get damaged or stolen?

No matter how careful you are, these things happen. Here are some tips that may help with the recovery or your tools or assist with reporting:

• Keep a record of your tools with serial numbers and photos .
• Register your tools and batteries with the manufacturer for extended warranties.
• Mark your tools so they’re easily identifiable. You could engrave them or mark with ultraviolet pens/paint/forensic marking.
• Use Bluetooth tracking technology and smartphone apps with locking features.
• Register with a security and registration scheme such as CESAR.

Even if you have insurance for your tools, it’s worth checking the policy exclusions and conditions to make sure you’re properly covered.

Good to know

Many insurers offer cover for tools as part of a comprehensive tradespersons or contractors policy, which can include employers liability, public liability and contract works cover.

Interested in finding out more about tradespersons insurance?

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