In other words, you’ll have the protection you need without having to fork out the same prices as other tradespeople. Winning! NatWest, RBS and Ulster Bank to close at least 172 branches in 2023/24 – here's the full list, plus alternatives

The Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act 2023 gives more power to the home office to prevent the theft and re-sale of equipment and tools used by tradespeople. Why invest in tool theft insurance? In the UK, tool theft is a major source of anxiety for tradespeople. In fact, according to the National Federation of Master Builders, 51% of UK builders have had their tools stolen before. That’s why, although it’s always important to be wary of tool theft, you’ll need to be particularly vigilant against van tool theft at night.Tools are very expensive and they’re absolutely essential to your day-to-day work. Of course, that means protecting them is a top priority. No matter how careful you are, you can never completely rule out the possibility of falling victim to tool theft. Tool theft insurance is the best way of making sure that if the worst happens, your business won’t find itself struggling financially. As a result, the UK government has passed the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act 2023. The new law gives more power to the home office to prevent the theft and re-sale of equipment and tools used by tradespeople. Not only are tools costly to replace. Stolen tools can also reduce your earnings by causing days or even weeks of lost work!

Our article on how van storage systems and organisation can keep your tools safe covers all the essential information you’ll need.There are a variety of different ways you can stop your van from being stolen. If you’re at all concerned about your van being targeted, look into investing in one or more of the below upgrades: Here’show you can prevent tool theft from vans, keeping your tools – and your livelihood – safe. Why be vigilant against van tool theft? There are lots of different ways you can mark your tools, from painting to metal stamping or etching. Just be sure to use a permanent solution that can’t be easily erased by thieves. 5. Keep an inventory of tools

NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) and Ulster Bank, which are all part of the NatWest Group, will now shut at least 172 of their bank branches in 2023 and 2024. In particular, try not to keep tools in your van that aren’t required for the job you’re currently working on. By marking your tools in a bright colour or with your company details, you’ll reduce the possibility of resale, making your tools less sought-after by criminals. Not only that, but if the worst happens and you do fall victim to tool theft, your tools will be much easier to identify if found.Sadly, the cost of living crisis brought with it an increase in shoplifting. We have also seen a rise in van and tool thefts too. Do you have a Power of Attorney? MoneySavingExpert.com founder Martin Lewis explains how this crucial protection works, why it's more important than a will, and how to get one in the latest episode of ITV's The Martin Lewis Money Show Live. Martin Lewis: Do you have a Power of Attorney? It’s crucial protection – not just for the elderly – and more important than a will

Aside from this, it’s a good idea to park in a busy area, or one with good lighting and CCTV, as this will be a big deterrent to criminals. Lots of tradespeople mark their tools to keep them from ending up in the wrong toolbox on a job. But it can also be a great deterrent for thieves! We understand that you have a lot of tools and that it’s often not possible to store them anywhere other than in your van. However, where you can, it’s wise to take as many tools as possible out of your vehicle at night. Breaking into vans to steal tools is a serious issue in the UK, so how can you secure your vehicle to stop this crime? Of course, we hope that your tools don’t get stolen. But if they do, your inventory can help with any insurance claims and police statements. Just make sure to keep it up to date each time you invest in a new tool or add to your collection.

Van anti-theft devices are a great way of protecting your van from being stolen or broken into. If you don’t currently have any anti-theft measures in your van, consider adding the following: Peel and steal’ is where thieves put pressure on the door of your van using their knees. They then create a bend in your van door allowing them to break in. Thieves are often very crafty and constantly coming up with new ways to target vans. We’ve summarised some of the most common ways that criminals could try to break into your van below: The claims experts at Covéa Insurance also recommend creating an inventory of all your tools and equipment. Although it’s never impossible to guarantee you won’t be a victim of tool theft, there are some steps you can put in place to make it less likely.