General News
4 July, 2024
Tool theft from vehicles spikes
It's not a new story but it's one that's certainly worth retelling: theft from tradespeople's vehicles has increased again.
The state's Crime Statistics Agency has reported that more than $33 million worth of tools were stolen from Victorian tradies in 2023 - a 37 per cent increase on the previous year's total.
In all, 18,626 power tools and 14,911 hand tools were stolen across Victoria in 2023.
This represents an increase of 12 per cent in the total number of items pilfered.
Given the sharp spike in thefts, the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) is urging Victorian tradies to check the security of their vehicles and home properties.
"Trade tools are particularly vulnerable to theft due to their high value and portability, posing a considerable risk to individual contractors, sole traders and small businesses," RACV general manager home Bill Bloodworth said.
"The loss of tools can not only cause the financial setback of having to purchase replacements but also result in reduced work capacity, potentially costing thousands of dollars in lost earnings."
Mr Bloodworth said tradespeople could take several steps to deter thieves from targeting their tools.
“To secure your tools in a vehicle, use a robust truck bed or a lockable toolbox, anchored to the vehicle with a strong security chain if portable,” he said.
“Marking your tools with your identification details, such as your name and driver’s licence number, makes them difficult for thieves to sell and easier for you to report as missing and increases the likelihood of recovery by police.”
Mr Bloodworth said RACV also suggested owners attach small GPS trackers to high-value items, allowing them to monitor the exact whereabouts of their tools through a smartphone app.
“To reduce the chance of theft, always ensure your tools are not left visible in your vehicle," he said.
"This recommendation extends to equipment stored on the roof, such as ladders, which should ideally be kept inside your home or garage at night.
“Thieves typically look for easy targets so visibly securing and locking away your tools can deter them from attempting a theft."
Mr Bloodworth said some criminals targeted not only portable tools but entire trade vehicles.
“Securing your vehicle is equally crucial to prevent it being stolen, potentially along with any tools inside," he said.
"If you can, park your work vehicle, such as a ute or truck, in a secured garage.”
He said having appropriate insurance coverage could "minimise the hassle and financial impact of tool theft" if the worse was to occur.
“To facilitate the recovery of stolen items by police and the insurance claims process, maintain a detailed inventory of your tools, including make, model and serial number, and accurately declare their value," Mr Bloodworth said.
"Photographs of your tools can also aid in their recovery.”