Why Tradespeople Should Consider Secure Tool Storage
Tool theft continues to be a serious concern for tradespeople across the UK. According to Directline Insurance, in the past year alone, over 25,000 incidents were reported, with losses estimated at £40 million. Alarmingly, nearly half of these thefts occurred from vehicles, highlighting the vulnerability of storing tools in vans overnight.
The cost of tool theft:
- 25,525 reported tool thefts
- 70 thefts per day on average
- £1,565 average value of tools stolen per incident
- £622 average business loss per incident
- 49% of thefts occurred from vehicles
For contractors, the impact goes beyond the financial loss. Stolen tools can delay projects, damage client relationships, and harm your reputation. Even with insurance, the claims process can be slow and costly—especially when premiums rise or excess fees nearly match the value of the stolen items.
How to Prevent Tool Theft
Keep Your Van Secure
While many tradespeople invest in upgraded locks, alarms, and GPS tracking, vans remain a prime target. Opportunistic thieves often ignore “No tools left in this van” stickers, and even a quick break-in can result in significant losses.
Tips:
- Park in well-lit, secure areas
- Block access to side and rear doors
- Store your van in a locked garage if possible
Make Tools Traceable
Marking tools with UV pens, spray paint, or engraving makes them harder to sell and easier to identify. Registering serial numbers on national databases can also aid recovery if stolen.
Store Tools Off-Site
Removing tools from your van overnight is one of the most effective ways to prevent theft. While home storage is an option, it may still pose a risk—especially for high-value equipment.
Why Self Storage is Safe & Secure for Tradespeople
At Loft Self Storage, we offer a secure, flexible self storage solutions for tradespeople looking to protect their tools and peace of mind.
Benefits of Self Storage
- 24/7 monitored CCTV and alarm systems
- Indoor units with individual access control
- Drive-up access for easy loading and unloading
- Short-term and long-term rental options
- Enhanced security compared to vans or home garages
Storing your tools in a dedicated unit not only reduces the risk of theft but also helps you stay organised and ready for the next job. With flexible terms and competitive pricing, it’s a small investment that protects your most valuable assets—and your livelihood.
Ready to Protect Your Tools?
Calculate the cost of replacing your tools, then consider the value of knowing they’re safe, secure, and ready when you need them. Our team is here to help you find the right storage solution—no long-term commitment required.
Get in touch today or visit www.loftss.co.uk to book your unit.