More than 80% of UK tradespeople have had tools stolen, with thefts up 16% in the past year, according to industry reports. The problem is leaving many unable to work, facing thousands of pounds in losses and, in some cases, without insurance cover.
Decorator Kevin Tingley, known online as Paint Warrior, had his van broken into on Boxing Day morning. Thieves stole the bulk of his equipment, forcing him to cancel jobs for January and February. He estimates the total cost at about £17,000, including replacing tools and repairing his van. Despite police obtaining CCTV footage and a vehicle number plate, he has had no update in over two months.
Tingley is not alone. A 2023 study by Direct Line business insurance found a tool was reported stolen every 12 minutes on average. Many tradespeople do not report thefts due to high insurance costs or policies that do not cover tools left in vehicles overnight. Only about 2% of stolen tools are returned to owners.
Robin Clevett, a carpenter with nearly 40 years of experience, noted the increasing scale and frequency of thefts. According to a survey by On the Tools, 37% of tradespeople have experienced tool theft twice, and 23% three times. The trend is causing significant financial and emotional strain across the industry.
