In partnership with Stolen Tools UK
Campaigning for better protection and real consequences
Tool theft costs UK tradespeople millions every year. This section has been put together in partnership with Frankie and the team at Stolen Tools UK. Whether you've been hit or you want to make sure you're not next, start here.
I'm a tradesman and the founder of Stolen Tools UK, a platform dedicated to raising awareness about tool theft. After losing £4,000 worth of tools in 2022 — an experience that impacted my business and my livelihood — I made it my mission to help other tradespeople protect themselves. Through Stolen Tools UK, I share practical advice on van security, build community support and campaign for change at both local and national levels. I now speak at events across the UK, giving tradespeople a voice and leading the fight against tool theft.
— Frankie Williams, Founder of Stolen Tools UK / The Window Restorer
Van Broken Into: What to Do Right Now
Van or site broken into, tools gone. Before anything else, slow down and do this in order. Once you're sure they're gone, don't start cleaning up yet.
Read this firstLocking Down Your Van and Site: The Security That Actually Works
You can't make yourself theft-proof. But you can make your van and your site look like too much hassle compared with the next one along.
How Tool Thieves Operate: What They Target and How They Get In
Once you understand their patterns, you can start making their life harder and your vans and sites less attractive. Most van tool thefts aren't Hollywood jobs.
Tool Marking and Registration: Does It Actually Work?
Always check your own policies, contracts and local police guidance. Stolen Tools UK isn't just for the day your van gets done over.
Tool Security Policy: What to Put in Writing for Your Business
Always check your own policies, contracts and local police guidance. This is your line in the sand for how you handle tools in this business.
Tool Theft in the UK: Why It Keeps Getting Worse
Fresh analysis of 2025 figures shows reported tool theft rising again to around 30,800 offences, up 16% year-on-year and worth nearly £19 million.
Cyber Security for Tradespeople: Scams, Hacks and What to Watch For
This is the classic one that nails small builders: a scammer gets into your email or your customer's. They watch invoices going back and forth.
Invoice Redirect Fraud: The Scam That's Costing Builders Thousands
NewInvoice redirect fraud is hitting UK construction hard. How the scam works, how to protect yourself, and what to do if money has already gone to the wrong account.
Fake HMRC Texts, Emails and Calls: How to Spot Them
NewFake HMRC tax refund texts, scam calls threatening arrest, phishing emails. How to spot fakes, what HMRC will never do, and what to do if you've already clicked.
Backing Up Your Business: Before the Scaffold Eats Your Phone
NewHow to back up quotes, invoices, CIS statements and job photos. The 3-2-1 rule, cloud options, and a 10-minute setup for tradespeople.