Darker evenings bring renewed warning for tradespeople

Tradespeople are being urged to take extra precautions as the clocks go back and darker evenings return, with new data obtained by Direct Line for Business – part of the Aviva group – revealing more than 26,000 tool thefts were reported across the UK in 2025.

The figures, gathered from police forces across the UK through Freedom of Information requests, highlight the increasing scale of the problem facing tradespeople, many of whom rely on expensive tools and equipment to earn a living.

Direct Line for Business claims data shows that tool theft remains a costly issue. The average value of a tool theft claim reached a record £4,206.60 in 2025, up from £3,962.01 in 2024 and £3,314.87 in 2021. While average claim costs have eased slightly so far in 2026, they remain close to £4,000 (£3,980.40), underlining the significant financial impact tool theft can have on small businesses and sole traders.

Gareth Powley, Senior Technical Underwriting Manager, Direct Line for Business, said: "For tradespeople, tools are far more than just equipment. They are their livelihood. Having tools stolen can be devastating, leading not only to the cost of replacement, but also lost work, cancelled jobs and disruption for customers.

"With the clocks going back and darker evenings creating more opportunities for thieves, it's vital that tradespeople take steps to protect their tools and vehicles.

"Having the right insurance in place can help customers get back up and running as quickly as possible if the worst happens. With Direct Line for Business, stolen tools are replaced on a new-for-old basis, helping tradespeople minimise disruption and get back to work sooner."

Top tips for protecting tools this autumn and winter

• Remove tools from vehicles overnight wherever possible.
• Park in well-lit areas and consider reversing vans against walls or secure barriers to limit access to rear doors.
• Use additional security measures such as alarms, immobilisers, deadlocks and tool safes.
• Mark and register tools to help police identify and recover stolen equipment.
• Keep a detailed inventory of tools, including photographs, serial numbers and proof of purchase.
• Review insurance cover regularly to ensure tools and equipment are adequately protected.

ENDS

Enquiries:

About Direct Line

Started in 1985, Direct Line became the first UK insurance company to use the telephone as its main channel of communication. It provides motor, home and pet insurance cover direct to customers by phone or online and is part of the Aviva Group.

Customers can find out more about Direct Line products or get a quote by calling 0345 246 3761 or visiting www.directline.com  

References:

^i. _{Direct Line for Business obtained tool theft data from police forces across the UK through Freedom of Information requests in Q1 2025. Police forces recorded more than 26,000 tool thefts in 2025.[↑]}

^ii. _{Direct Line for Business claims data relates to claims involving stolen tools and equipment made by business customers. Data correct as of September 2026.[↑]}