Tool theft is a plight on tradespeople throughout the UK, with 4 in 10 having experienced the crime. However, significant changes could be on the horizon, with the second reading of the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill having taken place on the 4th July.
A common issue raised is the sentencing of the thieves that are responsible, with many in the construction sector feeling that the punishment isn’t severe enough for the crime, due to the significant impact tool theft has on tradespeople’s livelihoods. However, the Bill looks to impose harsher penalties for the theft of tools used in trades.
Rob Rees, Divisional Director at Markel Direct, trades insurance provider, explains the Bill and outlines how tradespeople can proactively prevent their tools being stolen.
What does the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill aim to do?
The purpose of this Bill is to amend current sentencing guidelines to impose harsher penalties for the theft of tools used in trades.
Currently, tool theft is categorised as ‘harm category 3’, because most instances of theft are of a value under £10,000.
The Bill proposes that tool theft should be reclassified as causing ‘significant additional harm’ to the victim of the theft, which would enable magistrates to increase the severity of the offence to ‘harm category 2’ when it comes to the sentencing – even if the value of the theft is under £10,000.
Additionally, the Bill is looking to standardise the calculation of financial loss to include not only the physical cost of the tool itself, but the additional costs that often come with tool theft such as:
- The cost of repairs to any vehicle from which the tools were stolen – such as fixing damage to a van’s locks
- Loss of earnings resulting from the theft – such as being unable to work
- The cost of any interruption of business resulting from the theft – such as being unable to fulfil a contract
What is the current status of the Bill?
The second reading took place on the 4th July 2025, and was the first opportunity for MPs to debate the main principles of the Bill.
The next stage for the bill is scheduled for Friday, October 31st, according to UK Parliament. This is a Private Members’ Bill, and the second reading was the first opportunity for MPs to debate the bill’s main principles.
For more details on the Bill and its progress, you can visit the UK Parliament’s official page: https://Bills.parliament.uk/Bills/3908.
How can tradespeople prevent their tools from being stolen?
While the Bill is a positive step towards deterring tool theft, the process for it to become law will take time and is several months away (should the Bill proceed). However, tool theft is often conducted by opportunists, so by taking measures to secure their tools, tradespeople can put off potential thieves. We have outlined our top five recommendations below.
1. Enhanced security measures on vehicles
Installing alarms or enhanced van locks (e.g. double deadlocks, slam locks or lock protection plates) can help to deter thieves. Consider installing dashcams or interior cameras in the van itself, and ensuring that the area the van is parked in is well-lit and secured area where possible.
2. Remove tools from vehicles overnight
41% of tool theft occurs from vans that are parked at home – yet only 2% of tool theft occurs inside the home itself. Whilst it may seem like an inconvenience, parked vans are a target for tool thieves and taking your tools out of your vehicle at the end of the day will significantly reduce the risk of them being stolen.
3. Invest in video security if you park at home
Installing video doorbells and CCTV at home not only acts as a visible deterrent to would-be thieves, but can also act as evidence should the worst happen. With the introduction of battery powered devices in recent year, it is a relatively low-cost and straightforward way to put off tool thieves.
4. Tool marking, registration and tracking
Taking a proactive approach that makes tools unattractive to criminals can include:
- Property marking: Use UV pens, engraving tools, or forensic marking products (e.g. ImmobiMark, SmartWater or SelectaDNA) to mark tools with identifying information.
- Install trackers: For larger, expensive equipment you could consider installing discreet trackers and for valuable hand tools, Bluetooth or RFID tags linked to a smartphone app could come in useful.
- Register your tools: Register tools with Immobilise, which is a free online registration service that allows the public to record ownership details of their valued possessions. This means that theft alerts are immediately visible on police system and if your registered items are recovered by police, they can return them with ease.
5. Arrange tools insurance
By arranging an appropriate level of tools insurance, you can cover the cost of replacing your equipment if it is stolen. It’s worth checking that your policy can provide cover on a 24-hour basis should you need it, and choosing an insurer with a reputable claims team that settle claims quickly to minimise disruption to your business.
The Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill will be a positive step for the trades and construction sector, with harsher penalties acting as a potential deterrent for thieves. However, it’s never been more important for tradespeople to protect their tools through proactive measures to prevent theft, and insurance cover that will provide peace of mind should the worst happen.
To find out more, visit the Markel Direct website.