The majority of tradespeople (66%) have had their tools stolen or van broken into, according to a new survey by Screwfix. Nearly two thirds (65%) of tool theft victims have had their tools stolen more than once and nearly a quarter (24%) said tool theft has had an impact on their business. One fifth of tradespeople questioned said that tool theft was their biggest business worry.
As a result of tool theft, 66% of tradespeople have lost at least one working day, in addition to the loss of the value of the tools, which for 75% was more than £500. One fifth of trade tool theft victims had more than £5000 worth of tools stolen.
To protect themselves from tool theft, just over half (51%) remove them from their van overnight, while 40% have CCTV at home, and 25% have additional security products on their van.
Ben Lainton, director of trading at Screwfix, comments: “These latest findings show the concerning level of tool theft and van crime and the damaging impact they have on tradespeople and their businesses. Many of them are seeking ways to protect their tools and vans, so as a key supplier to the trade, we’re continuing to add security-focused innovations to our range to play our part and help them.”
To help tradespeople protect their tools and vans, Screwfix has a range of security products including the Master Lock van padlock and hasp set 230mm. This nickel-plated, die-cast zinc padlock with hardened steel shackle and a nickel and chrome-plated hardened steel hasp is supplied with two keys and fixings and provides enhanced protection for a van. While smart CCTV kits from Swann ensure vans and properties can be monitored wherever a tradesperson is, and Van Vault products such as site security boxes and the Outback ensure tools can be kept securely whether on site or on vans.For more information on security and protection products from Screwfix, visit www.screwfix.com
