Plumbers and heating engineers in Scotland and across the UK have been urged to lock down their kit, with warnings that leaving tools unsecured in a van overnight is akin to leaving a valve open—costly problems can follow.

A break-in can strip out essential equipment and wipe out days or weeks of work, hitting income and hard-earned reputation.

According to 2024 research from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, one in five van drivers had tools or equipment stolen in a year. The average value of stolen tools per van exceeds £1,700, with tradespeople across the UK facing potential losses totalling up to £1.64 billion. Despite the risk, 41% of van drivers still leave their tools in their vehicles overnight, and over a third admit the equipment left behind is worth more than £2,000.

In response, the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill is gathering support in Parliament. The proposal aims to increase the maximum sentence for theft of tools used in a person's trade, recognising that such losses directly threaten livelihoods. By acknowledging tools as vital business assets, the Bill is intended to provide a stronger deterrent against thieves.

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Every theft is more than a statistic—it disrupts schedules and jeopardises client trust. In a sector where reliability and timing are critical, losing access to tools can stall projects and undermine business continuity. Proactive protection—physical security and appropriate insurance—remains essential.

Keeping a detailed, up-to-date tool inventory can make recovery smoother after a theft. Useful details include: item name and description; purchase date; invoice number and supplier details; original purchase cost; place of purchase and a website link (if available); photographs of each item; and serial numbers or calibration certificates where applicable.

Having this documentation ready can speed an insurer's assessment and settlement. Many claims are resolved faster when accurate, well-organised records are provided, turning a potentially delayed outcome into a quicker resolution.

Prevention sits alongside insurance as the first line of defence. Practical steps include:

- Remove tools from vans overnight and store them indoors where possible

- Fit deadlocks and van safes for added protection

- Add lock protection plates and window grilles to deter intruders

- Install a GPS tracker to improve recovery prospects

- Park in well-lit, secure areas close to walls or CCTV

- Avoid leaving tools unattended outside properties, even briefly

- Use a vehicle alarm system with motion sensors and alerts

- Keep tools out of sight with storage boxes or covers

Trades should also review their insurance. Standard contractor policies may not fully cover tools—especially for overnight theft. Tools and equipment often require specific extensions, while vehicle theft typically needs a separate commercial van policy.