How Heating & Plumbing Engineers Can Protect & Mark Tools Against Theft
Every 21 minutes, an incident of tool theft is reported in the UK.
For heating and plumbing engineers like you, tool theft is an ongoing threat. From your flue gas analyser to your pipe benders, your kit is your livelihood.
Losing it means more than a financial hit: it disrupts jobs, affects customers, and creates stress when you’re already juggling deadlines.
And here’s the reality — 4 in 5 tradespeople have had their tools stolen at some point. If you’ve managed to avoid it so far, you’re one of the lucky few.
Source: Direct Line Group, 2025
Understanding the Scope of Tool Theft
The numbers paint a bleak picture of how widespread tool theft has become:
- 79% of UK tradespeople have had tools stolen at some point.
- Thefts peak in winter — shorter days are your most busy, but also give thieves more cover.
- Vans are prime targets, making up roughly one-third of all reported thefts.
For heating and plumbing engineers, vans are particularly vulnerable because they’re often loaded with high-value items like flue gas analysers, power tools, and boiler spares.
The Real Impact of Tool Theft
When your kit is stolen, the problems stack up quickly:
- Immediate financial loss – Replacing drills, pipe cutters, analysers, and a full set of plumbing tools can easily cost thousands.
- Lost working time – You can’t complete boiler installs or emergency call-outs without the right kit.
- Project delays – Customers won’t wait forever, and delayed jobs can damage your reputation.
- Insurance complications – Claims can take weeks and often result in higher premiums.
- Stress and frustration – The emotional toll of being targeted shouldn’t be underestimated.
Plus, tool theft isn’t always a one-off. Thieves often return, knowing you’ll replace your stolen kit with brand-new tools. That makes you a repeat target.
How to Mark Your Tools to Prevent Theft
Marking tools is one of the simplest, most effective steps you can take. Thieves actively avoid marked tools because they’re harder to sell, and if your tools are recovered, markings make it far easier for police to return them.
DIY Marking Options
- Permanent marker or UV pen – Write your business name, phone number, or postcode. UV markings are invisible in daylight but show up under police scanners.
- Engraving – Etching initials or details directly into metal makes tools harder to sell and harder to disguise.
- Bright paint – Fluorescent paint or unique colour coding makes tools easily identifiable, especially on-site where kits often look the same.
Advanced Marking Options
- Datatag – Uses tamper-proof ID tags, UV etching, and forensic DNA. Tools are 4x less likely to be stolen and 6x more likely to be recovered.
- SelectaDNA – A clear liquid containing unique DNA markers. Applied once, it permanently ties tools to you and is recognised by police nationwide.
Securing Your Van
Your van is the weak link — and heating and plumbing vans are particularly attractive targets. They’re usually packed with expensive kit and parked in predictable places.
Lock Upgrades
- Deadlocks – Extra locks that can’t be opened from the inside.
- SlamLocks – Lock automatically every time you shut the door.
- Arma Plates – Reinforce lock cylinders, preventing drilling and picking.
Secure Storage
- Van Vault Mobi – Portable storage you can move between vans.
- Van Vault Slider – Heavy-duty drawer storage that’s easy to access on-site.
- Bespoke racking with lockable drawers – Keeps tools secure and organised.
Deterrents
- Alarms – High-volume sirens and shock sensors deter thieves.
- Dash cams or CCTV – Record activity around your van.
- Motion lights – Illuminate when movement is detected.
Additional Tips for Staying Safe
- Keep an inventory – Record serial numbers, photos, and receipts. This helps both with insurance and with police recovery.
- Join local heating & plumbing networks – Many engineers share theft alerts on social media and WhatsApp groups, and stolen tools often resurface here.
- Check your insurance – Make sure your policy covers theft from vans and premises.
- Vary your routine – Don’t park in the same spot or leave your van loaded at predictable times.
What’s Being Done About It
There’s a growing push for stronger action. The Theft of Tools of Trade Sentencing Bill, introduced by Amanda Martin MP, seeks tougher penalties for those convicted of stealing tools. We even covered this on the FieldRocket podcast — you can watch the full conversation here.