The Tool Theft Bill
10 March 2026Posted by:
Helen Devery
Consultant, Clyde & Co LLP
As a tradesperson you have probably experienced tool theft yourself or you know someone who has.
- Over 25,000 cases of tool theft were recorded by police in 2024 with£40million of tools is estimated to have been stolen (FOI data obtained by Direct Line Business Insurance)
- A staggering 78% of tradespeople have experienced tool theft (Electrical Times report)
So how will the new Tool Theft Bill (known formally as The Theft of Tools of Trade Sentencing Bill) affect you?
The Bill focuses on two major changes:
Reclassify tool theft so it’s seen as a more serious crime
Right now, stealing tools is usually classed as a lower-harm offence in UK law because most cases involve thefts valued at less than £10,000, even if the impact on the victim is huge. The new Bill proposes that the theft of trade tools is reclassified as causing “significant additional harm”. This would give the courts the power to hand down tougher penalties, even when the value stolen is under £10,000.
Recognise the full cost to victims
The change is meant to reflect the real-world impact — so that the courts consider the full impact of the crime.
The Bill wants the court to officially include all the knock-on costs in sentencing decisions, such as:
- The cost of replacing tools
- Lost work and earnings whilst tools are replaced
- Van or property damage or repair from thefts
Interrupted contracts or customer cancellations
This could mean harsher fines or longer community orders (and in some cases, custodial sentences) for offenders compared with what happens now.
Target repeat and organised offenders
Some versions of the proposed law also give courts and probation services new powers to impose restrictions on offenders — e.g., keeping them away from work sites or tool sellers — to stop re-offending.
The idea is that if courts take tool theft more seriously, it will act as a deterrent and give victims more confidence that the justice system will back them.
When will the this come into force?
The proposed Bill is moving through Parliament and is scheduled for its second reading in the House of Commons in May 2026. The exact date of when it will come into force is yet to be confirmed but we will monitor and update on all developments.
Top Tips for Trades
Even before the law changes, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and protect your business:
Prevent Theft in the First Place
- Don’t leave tools in vans overnight if possible — this is when most thefts happen.
- Install high-security locks and vaults in vehicles (look for ‘Sold Secure’ / ‘Secured by Design’ rated).
Mark and record your tools
- Put your name or ID on tools — permanent marking makes them harder for thieves to resell.
- Install security measures like CCTV, good alarms and upgraded locks
- Record serial numbers and photos of all tools in an inventory — it makes police work and insurance claims smoother
- Remember the basics like securing your van and keeping valuables out of sight
- Even if the value seems small, report thefts to the police — this helps improve crime data and influences policing priorities
- Be cautious if buying second-hand tools from individuals without clear proof of purchase — stolen goods often get re-sold cheaply
Train your people
- Brief staff on locking up and tool security rules
- Assign responsibility for tool checks at the start and end of jobs
- Make tool security part of inductions and toolbox talks
Final takeaway
The Tool Theft Bill won’t stop theft overnight — but it strengthens your position as a victim. Pairing tougher sentencing with good security, records and reporting gives your business the best protection.
About the author
Helen Devery
Consultant, Clyde & Co LLP
Helen has vast experience in the most severe corporate and gross negligence manslaughter offences and represents clients during major inquests.
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