What is the Theft of Tools of Trade Bill?

If you’re a tradesperson, chances are you’ve either experienced tool theft yourself or know someone who has – and you’ll know just how devastating it can be. The Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill aims to tackle the problem of tool theft for good reason. 

It’s not just about shelling out for new gear – it’s the lost jobs, the stress, and that sinking feeling that the system doesn’t really get how serious this is. That’s why the Theft of Tools of Trade Bill is such a big deal. 

It’s a proposed law that aims to crack down on tool theft and make sure the courts treat it like the serious crime it is. In this post, we’ll break down what the bill’s all about and why it matters along with a few tips to keep tools safe. 

What is the Theft of Tools of Trade Bill? 

Tabled by MP Amanda Martin, the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill is proposed UK law that aims to recognise tool theft as a serious crime and bring harsher sentences to criminals who commit tool theft offences. 

The Bill reflects growing concern over the rise in tool theft across the UK and aims to provide greater justice and protection for tradespeople whose livelihoods depend on their equipment. 

The rising problem of tool theft 

Tool theft isn’t a new problem for tradespeople – but until recently, it wasn’t getting the attention it deserves. Now it’s gaining national attention, with many reports spotlighting how big of a problem tool theft is. 

Tool theft stats 

Recent stats gathered by Direct Line and On The Tools paint a pretty clear picture: 

• Tool theft cases fell by 18% in 2024 compared to 2023 but still remain high 

• Over 25,000 cases were reported in 2024 (average of 70 per day) 

• £40 million of tools is estimated to have been stolen in 2024 

• 78% of tradespeople had experienced tool theft 

• 13% had to pay for damage to repair their vehicle from theft 

Our own look at Met Police tool theft stats suggests tradies can’t catch a break either – while less daylight in November and October saw the most cases in 2022 and 2023 (respectively), some summer months were still in the top 5 for theft cases. 

It also showed that weekdays were the most favoured for would-be thieves, with lunchtime the most popular time to steal tools. 

Real stories of stolen tools of trade 

Welsh electrician’s van door cut open 

Welsh electrician Lee Jones had £5,000 worth of tools stolen in broad daylight in early 2025 when working in Llandaff, Wales. Thieves cut a hole in the van’s back door – “It took them 30 seconds to cut a hole… and two minutes to empty it”. 

London gas engineer two-time victim 

Shoaib Awan, a London gas engineer was targeted twice, the second time seeing £8,500 worth of tools taken. This forced him to cancel holidays with his wife and two daughters. 

Hertfordshire tradesman shares impact on mental health 

Stephen Baker, a multi-trade specialist who spoke a tool theft Parliament breakfast in February 2025, shares his story of how his van was “turned over” in 2023. The incident resulted in the theft of up to £15,000 worth of tool and left him feeling “violated and worthless”. 

What the Theft of Tools of Trade Bill aims to achieve? 

The Bill zeroes in on two big changes: tougher sentences for tool theft, and making sure courts consider the full financial hit tradespeople take – not just the cost of the tools, but everything that comes with losing them. 

Reclassify as a more serious offence 

At the moment, tool theft is classified as ‘harm category 3’ because most cases involve thefts valued at less than £10,000. This means cases are deemed as “medium value goods” stolen with “no significant additional harm”. 

The Bill proposes the theft of trade tools be reclassified as causing ‘significant additional harm’. This would enable magistrates to increase the sentencing category to ‘harm category 2’ and deliver harsher consequences – even if the value of the theft is below £10k. 

Include additional costs in financial loss calculations 

On top of this, the Bill pushes for the standardisation of the calculation of financial loss to include additional costs a victim faces, not just the cost to replace the tool itself. Quoting the Bill, this includes: 

• the cost of replacing the tools 

• the cost of repairs to any vehicle from which the tools were stolen 

• loss of earnings resulting from the theft 

• the cost of any interruption of business resulting from the theft 

How the Theft of Tools of Trade Bill helps tradespeople 

As it stands, sentencing guidelines only take into consideration the costs of tools stolen. Its categorisation also positions it as a lighter offence only requiring minimal repercussions. The Bill pushes to change this for the better. 

Make sentencing tougher 

By bumping up the sentencing category, magistrates can hand out tougher penalties to offenders. This ultimately can give victims a greater sense of justice for such an impactful crime. 

Ensure the full impact is considered by courts 

The current sentencing doesn’t reflect the true extent of damages a tradesperson faces when they have their trade tools stolen. It’s not just about the tools themselves, it’s the subsequent inability to work, the loss of earnings from having to cancel jobs, the costs to repair any damage caused. 

The Bill encourages courts to consider the full impact a crime can have and to serve justice accordingly. 

Send a message that it’s a serious crime 

With current tool theft crimes only meriting lighter sentencing, criminals may view it as a quick win with little risk. 

Harsher sentences send a message to would-be thieves that it is a serious crime, and they’ll be punished as such – hopefully putting them off even thinking about stealing in the first place. 

Empower tradespeople to feel recognised and supported by the UK justice system 

Right now, it’s easy to see why some tradespeople feel unseen by the UK justice system. Their ability to bring home an income could be stolen from them and the perpetrator would only get an arguably minimal punishment. 

Backing this Bill means backing tradespeople – and recognising the real risks they deal with every day. 

What’s next for the Bill? 

The Theft of Tools of Trade Bill already had its first reading in Parliament in early 2025, a solid first step. It was originally meant to have its second reading back in July 2025, but that got pushed back. 

Now, it’s scheduled for its second reading on Friday 31st October 2025. That being said, it’s been delayed twice already so we’re eager to see if it will be presented to the House of Common this time around and get one step closer to coming to fruition. 

What can tradespeople do to protect their tools? 

While waiting for progress with the Bill, there’s plenty of steps tradespeople can take to keep their tools safe – and therefore their livelihoods. 

1. Secure your van – make sure your van is locked up tight and parked safely. 

2. Install security measures – install devices like CCTV, alarms and upgraded locks. 

3. Mark your tools – use UV markers or similar to mark your tools with identifiable details. 

4. Keep a log – log all tools (power tools, hand tools, materials), take photos and keep receipts safe – this will help with insurance too! 

5. Remember the basics – keep valuables out of sight and locked up (don’t leave tools unsecured and unattended for long periods). 

6. Consider financial protection – if the worst happens, insurance can provide financial protection, helping you back to work quicker and minimise disruption. 

Trusted insurance for tradespeople 

Our standard Trades Insurance includes £2,500 Goods & Tools cover at no extra cost, alongside core policies like Public Liability and Employers’ Liability (if needed). 

Other perks include: 

• Optional add-ons like Contract Works, Hired in Plant, Owned Plant, and Professional Indemnity 

• Nil excess on most professions covered 

• Claims paid out on tools stolen from your van overnight (when left secured and there’s signs of forced entry)

• Real support from in-house dedicated experts 

• No hidden fees

Have a question? Get in touch – our in-house experts are on hand to help you find the right insurance. If you’re ready, you can go straight to getting a quote today through our online quote and buy.