What is the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill?

An industry expert explains the newly proposed tool theft legislation and steps to protect your tools

Tool theft is a blight on tradespeople throughout the UK, with 4 in 10 having experienced this crime. However, significant changes could be on the horizon, with the second reading of the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill set to take place on 4 July 2025.

A common issue raised is the sentencing of the thieves responsible, with many in the construction sector feeling that the punishment isn’t severe enough given the significant impact tool theft has on tradespeople’s livelihoods. The Bill aims to impose harsher penalties for the theft of tools used in trades.

Rob Rees, Divisional Director at Markel Direct, a trades insurance provider, explains the Bill and outlines how tradespeople can proactively prevent their tools from being stolen.

What does the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill aim to do?

The purpose of the Bill is to amend current sentencing guidelines to impose harsher penalties for the theft of tools used in trades.

Currently, tool theft is categorised as ‘harm category 3’ because most instances involve thefts valued under £10,000.

The Bill proposes that tool theft should be reclassified as causing ‘significant additional harm’ to the victim, enabling magistrates to increase the severity of the offence to ‘harm category 2’ at sentencing – even if the value of the theft is under £10,000.

Additionally, the Bill seeks to standardise the calculation of financial loss to include not only the physical cost of the tool itself, but also additional costs that often arise from tool theft, such as:

• The cost of repairs to any vehicle from which the tools were stolen – such as fixing damage to a van’s locks

• Loss of earnings resulting from the theft – such as being unable to work

• The cost of any interruption to business – such as being unable to fulfil a contract

What is the current status of the Bill?

The second reading took place on 4 July 2025 and was the first opportunity for MPs to debate the main principles of the Bill.

Amanda Martin, MP for Portsmouth North and the MP responsible for the Bill, opened the second reading debate. When the debate concluded, the Commons decided whether the Bill should progress to the next stage by voting.

For more details on the Bill and its progress, you can visit the UK Parliament’s official page: https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3908.

How can tradespeople prevent their tools from being stolen?

While the Bill is a positive step towards deterring tool theft, the process for it to become law will take time and is several months away (should the Bill proceed). Tool theft is often committed by opportunists, so by taking measures to secure their tools, tradespeople can deter potential thieves. Here are top five recommendations:

1. Enhance security measures on vehicles

Installing alarms or enhanced van locks (e.g. double deadlocks, slam locks or lock protection plates) can help deter thieves. Consider installing dashcams or interior cameras in the van, and park in well-lit, secured areas where possible.

2. Remove tools from vehicles overnight

41% of tool theft occurs from vans parked at home – yet only 2% happens inside the home itself. Although it may seem inconvenient, parked vans are a common target, so taking your tools out at the end of the day will significantly reduce the risk of theft.

3. Invest in video security if you park at home

Installing video doorbells and CCTV at home not only acts as a visible deterrent but can also provide evidence should the worst happen. Thanks to battery-powered devices in recent years, this is now a relatively low-cost and straightforward way to put off tool thieves.

4. Tool marking, registration and tracking

A proactive approach to making tools unattractive to criminals can include:

• Property marking: Use UV pens, engraving tools, or forensic marking products (e.g. ImmobiMark, SmartWater or SelectaDNA) to mark tools with identifying information.

• Install trackers: For larger, expensive equipment, consider discreet trackers; for valuable hand tools, Bluetooth or RFID tags linked to a smartphone app could be useful.

• Register your tools: Register tools with Immobilise, a free online service that records ownership details. Theft alerts are visible to police systems, making it easier to recover and return stolen items.

5. Arrange tools insurance

Having an appropriate level of tools insurance can cover the cost of replacing stolen equipment. Check that your policy provides 24-hour cover if needed and choose an insurer with a reputable claims team that settles claims quickly to minimise disruption to your business.

The Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill represents a positive step for the trades and construction sector, with harsher penalties potentially deterring thieves. However, it has never been more important for tradespeople to protect their tools through proactive measures and insurance cover that provides peace of mind should the worst happen.

To find out more, visit the Markel Direct  website: www.markeluk.com