There are growing calls across the construction industry for stricter sentencing in cases of tool theft, as seven in 10 tradespeople report having tools stolen within the last two years.  

New research carried out by Direct Line business insurance found that more than half of Brits (52%) believed that current punishments for tool theft were too lenient. 

Additionally, four in five respondents said that they thought theft from a van is as serious as burglary offences, and nearly three-quarters agree that increasing the penalties for tool theft would send a clear message that the crime would not be tolerated. 

In separate research based on Direct Line’s latest analysis, tools worth £98 million were stolen from tradespeople in 2023 alone, equating to a tool theft being reported every 12 minutes.

Direct Line’s findings were shared ahead of the second reading of the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill, which was due to be discussed in parliament on Friday, 25 April, but has now been postponed to 4 July.

Mark Summerville, SME Product Manager at Direct Line business insurance, commented:

“Tradespeople rely on their tools to earn a living, so when they are stolen, the financial impact can be significant. Replacing tools is not only expensive but also time-consuming, and in many cases, the vans themselves require extensive repairs after a break-in. This leaves tradespeople off the road and unable to work, further compounding the loss.

“Our research reveals the extent to which the public support stricter penalties for tool theft, especially in light of the essential role tradespeople play in our economy and the drastic effects tool theft has on their business operations. With many offences avoiding custodial sentences, a majority support stricter punishments in order to help protect the livelihoods of tradespeople.”

Hundreds gather for Westminster protest

Back in February, hundreds of tradespeople gathered at Westminster to protest the growth in tool theft and to highlight its financial and emotional impact.

The rally, which was organised by Trades United, featured a ‘go-slow’ convoy disrupting traffic in the area, and demonstrations for stronger legislation that would protect the livelihoods and wellbeing of workers. 

What does the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill seek to achieve? 

The bill, which has been tabled by Amanda Martin, MP for Portsmouth North, seeks to introduce harsher sentencing for those found guilty of tool theft. 

This would include adding the theft of tools to a list of existing crime examples defined as causing ‘significant additional harm’ to the victim. It also aims to further highlight the financial impact of tool theft, such as loss of earnings and vehicle repairs. 

How can tradespeople protect themselves against tool theft?

Unfortunately, taking steps to reduce the risk of tool theft is something that every tradesperson should be doing. A few examples of these include: 

  • Not leaving tools in vans overnight
  • Fitting a tool safe in your van
  • Fitting a tracking device to aid in vehicle recovery
  • Ensuring locks are working properly, and investing in high-quality replacements should they become faulty
  • Being tactical with your parking, for instance, parking your van with the back doors against a wall or garage to make it difficult for thieves to gain access
  • Fitting an alarm and intelligent immobiliser

It is also crucial that tradespeople ensure they have adequate vehicle and tool insurance policies to protect themselves in cases of theft.