Tens of millions of pounds of equipment is stolen each year and in 2023, about 50% of tools were stolen from vehicles. A lot of the tools were stolen from vans which are often left severely damaged. A builder estimated he had about £15,000 worth of tools stolen when his van was broken into.
It took 22 seconds to get into his van and 4.5 minutes to empty it. As a result of the stolen tools, he lost his business as he was unable to conduct any work.
How much is stolen from Vans in the UK per year?
The average tradesman van could have anything from £2,000 to £15,000 worth of tools and thieves are now taking more than just tools. Some thieves are taking thermal imaging cameras and dash cams.
The impacts of tool theft are more than just missing tools. Some business owners are unable to work for a period of time, have to close their businesses and pay for more damages such as vehicle repairs.
When does Tool Theft Happen?
More than half of tool thefts occur at night but more are starting to happen during the day. One victim had their van broken into when they went to pick up a drink from a coffee shop. They were out of sight of their van for a few minutes and had £3,000 worth of tools stolen.
Most commonly, the criminal activity occurs when the vehicle is parked at the tradesperson’s home or in a car park.
How can you prevent tool theft?
There are a few actions that you can take to prevent tool theft:
• Use grills and thick plywood or MDF to secure van windows
• Separate the cab and the load area by fitting a full bulkhead
• Install anti-theft products such as immobilisers and trackers
• Fit a tool safe
• Don’t leave any tools or equipment out on display
• Make sure your van is locked when you’re not there
• Secure van windows with grills or medium-thickness plywood or MDF
• Fit a full bulkhead to separate the cab from the load area
• Install an anti-theft product: OBD port protector, immobiliser or tracker
• Fit a tool safe
• Don’t leave anything of value on display
Tool Theft Insurance Cover
At Mayfair Online, we can arrange Vehicle Tools Insurance Cover. A fit for purpose policy that may have additional cover that your Commercial Insurance policy may not have.
• Overnight cover for tools in the van – Other products in the market restrict or exclude overnight cover in the van
• Excess of £100 – The market excesses range from £150 to £450
• Claims settlement with 5 days – The market average is 5 weeks
• Personal effects covered up to £350 – The market tends not to provide personal effects cover
If you would like to find out more about Tools Cover or would like a no-obligation quote, get in touch with our team today. Call us on 01234 242900 or complete our contact form and we’ll be in touch with you as soon as possible.