Tools and Equipment Insurance
Your tools are essential to your livelihood. If they are stolen from your van or damaged on site, tools and equipment insurance helps you get back to work without bearing the full cost yourself.
Get in touchWhat is tools and equipment insurance?
Tools and equipment insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing your tools and work equipment if they are stolen, lost or accidentally damaged. It typically covers tools whether they are on site, in your vehicle, at your premises or in transit.
For tradespeople and contractors, tools represent a significant investment. Replacing a full set of stolen power tools or specialist equipment can cost thousands of pounds, and being unable to work while you replace them means lost income on top of the replacement cost.
Policies vary in what they cover and how they define tools, so it is important to check whether your cover includes items left in vehicles overnight, hired equipment and any high-value specialist items you rely on.
What is covered
- Theft of tools from vehicles
- Accidental damage to equipment
- Tools stolen from site
- Tools in transit
What is not covered
- General wear and tear
Gradual deterioration is not covered. Only sudden or accidental events qualify.
- Tools left unattended in unlocked vehicles
Most policies require tools to be in a locked vehicle or secured storage
Who needs tools and equipment insurance?
Electricians and plumbers
Tradespeople who carry expensive diagnostic and installation tools daily
Builders and carpenters
Anyone using power tools, hand tools and specialist equipment on site
Landscapers and gardeners
Professionals relying on mowers, strimmers, chainsaws and other outdoor equipment
Photographers and videographers
Creative professionals with expensive cameras, lenses, lighting and audio equipment
WHY CECIL
Built differently.
UK specialists
Leading UK insurers only. No American-style policies retrofitted for British businesses.
Straightforward process
Tell us about your business. We find the options. You choose. No lengthy forms, no automated runaround.
Cover that actually fits
Cover that fits how your business operates, not a generic category. Tell us what you do and get the options that actually match.
Here when it matters
When something goes wrong, you need your insurer to respond. Only insurers rated for their claims handling.
Common questions about tools and equipment insurance
Does tools insurance cover theft from a van?
Yes, most tools and equipment policies cover theft from a vehicle, provided the vehicle was locked and, in many cases, the tools were stored in a secure toolbox or compartment. Some insurers impose specific security requirements, so it is worth checking the policy conditions carefully.
What tools are covered by tools insurance?
Most policies cover hand tools, power tools, diagnostic equipment and other items you use for work. Some policies also cover hired equipment and personal tools used for business purposes. High-value or specialist items may need to be listed separately on the policy. Check with your insurer to make sure everything is included.
Is tools insurance the same as van insurance?
No. Van insurance covers the vehicle itself against damage, theft or third-party claims. Tools and equipment insurance covers the contents, specifically the tools and equipment you carry in or on the vehicle. You typically need both if you transport tools in a van.
Can I claim for tools stolen from a building site?
Yes, most tools and equipment policies cover theft from a work site, provided reasonable security measures were in place. Some policies require tools to have been locked in a container or secure area when not in use. Cecil can help you find a policy with site theft cover that suits the way you work.
Industries that need this cover
Tools and Equipment Insurance is commonly required across these sectors.
Interested in Tools and Equipment Insurance?
We will be in contact when Cecil launches.