Nearly half of tool theft is from vehicles

From smashed locks to lost income, tool theft from vans is still hitting hard. Here’s what the numbers don’t show, and the simple steps that can help protect your tools, your van and your ability to keep working.

For most tradespeople, your van isn’t just transport. It’s a mobile workshop, a store cupboard, and the thing that keeps the job moving. But it’s also one of the biggest targets for thieves.

And while reported tool theft may be falling on paper, the real picture tells a very different story. The problem hasn’t gone away.

New figures suggest tool theft reports dropped in 2025. At first glance, that sounds like good news. Dig a little deeper, though, and it’s clear the risk hasn’t eased, it’s just got quieter.

A Freedom of Information request revealed there were 26,724 reported tool thefts in 2025. That’s still the equivalent of one theft every 20 minutes. And while this is lower than the previous year, research from one insurer shows almost a quarter of tradespeople (23%) who had tools stolen didn’t report it at all, often because they felt nothing would come of it.

The true scale of the issue is almost certainly much bigger than the headlines suggest.

Tool theft is the norm, not the exception

For tradespeople, tool theft isn’t a rare horror story, unfortunately. It’s something most expect to face at some point in their working lives.

Around three quarters of tradespeople (74%) say they’ve been a victim, with nearly one in three hit more than once. When tools disappear, the impact is immediate. Jobs are delayed. Income stalls. And for many, the only way to keep working is to borrow tools from colleagues, putting even more pressure on already stretched businesses.

With the average value of stolen tools at £1,300, estimates suggest around £35 million worth of tools were taken last year. And again, that’s likely a conservative figure.

Vans are the biggest target

Nearly 42% of tool thefts happen directly from vehicles, making vans the number one risk area. Thieves know where the value is, and they know vans are often left overnight with tools inside.

The result isn’t just missing equipment. Tradespeople are often left dealing with smashed locks, damaged doors and time off the road, turning one crime into two expensive problems.

It’s no surprise that some are changing how they work. Previous research shows more than a third now sometimes move tools into the boot of their car, just to make things less obvious. It’s inconvenient, but it shows how seriously people take the risk.

The hidden cost: stress, disruption and lost confidence

Of course, tool theft isn’t just about money. Losing tools can knock your confidence, disrupt schedules and take a real toll on your mental health. There’s frustration, worry about the next job, and the feeling of being targeted simply for doing your work. And if you’re a sole trader, a single theft can threaten your ability to earn at all.

There’s been some success through shared vigilance, with tradespeople using local networks and social media to flag suspicious activity and warn others in the area. That collective approach makes a difference.

But prevention at van level remains the strongest defence. Practical steps, layered together, can significantly reduce the risk.

How to protect your tools and your van

Take tools out overnight

If you can, remove tools from the van and store them securely indoors overnight. It’s one of the simplest and most effective deterrents.

Park smart

Choose busy, well‑lit areas with CCTV where possible. Parking with rear or side doors close to a wall or another vehicle can make access harder. A garage is even better.

Lock up every time

Even quick stops can be enough for opportunistic thieves. Always lock your vehicle, no matter how briefly you step away.

Add extra security

Deadlocks, slam locks, alarms, immobilisers and steering wheel locks all add layers of protection. GPS tracking can also improve the chances of recovery if the worst happens.

Mark and register your tools

Using forensic marking systems and keeping records of serial numbers, photos and receipts helps police identify recovered tools and supports insurance claims. Registering tools on the UK’s National Property Register adds another safeguard.

Use warning stickers

Visible deterrents can make thieves think twice by signalling that your van and tools are traceable and protected.

Why insurance still matters

Even with the best precautions, no system is foolproof. That’s where the right insurance makes all the difference. Proper cover can help pay for replacing stolen tools, repairing vehicle damage, and getting you back on the road faster – without the stress of shouldering the full cost yourself.

Get back to work faster with Howden

Tool theft from vans is a real, ongoing risk. But with the right mix of prevention, vigilance and insurance, it doesn’t have to derail your livelihood.

At Howden, we take the time to understand how you work and what you rely on, with our exclusive, stand-alone Tools Cover paying out on over 99% of claims. And if your van is locked and you keep your tools in it overnight at your home or business address, you’re still covered with our Tools Cover. We’ll help you protect your van, your tools and your income – so one bad night doesn’t undo months of hard graft.

Speak to Howden today and make sure your tools, your van and your business are properly protected.

Sources: Daily Express, Direct Line