Tools Stolen from Van

What to Do Right Now

Had your tools stolen from your van or ute? Follow our step-by-step guide to report the theft, make an insurance claim, and get back to work as quickly as possible.

Get Replacement Quote Prevention Guide
Tools Stolen from Van - What to Do Right Now

⚠️ IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED

If your tools have just been stolen, follow these steps RIGHT NOW:

🚨 First 30 Minutes

  1. Secure the crime scene - don't disturb evidence
  2. Call Police: 111 (emergency) or 105 (non-emergency)
  3. Take photos of any damage to your van
  4. Note exact time and location of discovery
  5. Don't touch anything unnecessarily

📞 Next 24 Hours

  1. Get police report number
  2. Contact your insurance company immediately
  3. List all stolen items with serial numbers
  4. Gather proof of ownership (receipts, photos)
  5. Inform your bank if cards/wallet were stolen

Complete Step-by-Step Action Plan

1

Report to Police

What to Tell Police:

  • Exact time theft was discovered
  • Last time van was checked/used
  • Location where van was parked
  • Security measures in place (locks, alarms)
  • Complete list of stolen items
  • Any witnesses or CCTV cameras nearby

What You'll Need:

  • Your driver's license
  • Vehicle registration details
  • List of stolen items with descriptions
  • Serial numbers (if available)
  • Estimated values
  • Photos of the van/damage

Important: Get the official police report number - you'll need this for your insurance claim.

2

Contact Your Insurance Company

Information to Provide:

  • Policy number
  • Police report number
  • Date, time, and location of theft
  • Circumstances of the theft
  • Complete list of stolen items
  • Estimated total value

Questions to Ask:

  • What documentation do you need from me?
  • What is my policy excess?
  • How long will the claim take?
  • Can I get temporary replacement tools?
  • Do you have preferred suppliers for replacements?
  • Will this affect my premiums?

Tip: Ask for the claim reference number and keep detailed records of all conversations with your insurer.

3

Document Everything

📝 Create a Detailed Inventory

List every stolen item including:

  • Item name, brand, and model
  • Serial number (if available)
  • Age and condition
  • Purchase price and date
  • Current replacement value

📸 Gather Proof of Ownership

  • Purchase receipts or invoices
  • Photos of tools (from your phone/social media)
  • Insurance valuations or previous claims
  • Bank or credit card statements showing purchases
  • Supplier delivery notes
  • Tool registration certificates
4

Protect Yourself Further

🔒 Immediate Security Steps:

  • Change locks if keys were stolen
  • Install additional van security
  • Review parking locations
  • Consider GPS tracking for replacement tools
  • Upgrade van locks and alarms

💳 Financial Protection:

  • Cancel any stolen bank cards
  • Monitor accounts for suspicious activity
  • Update tool insurance if needed
  • Keep receipts for temporary tool purchases
  • Track all claim-related expenses

How to Prevent Future Tool Theft

🔐 Van Security Upgrades

High Impact

Deadlocks & Slam Locks

Professional van locks are much harder to break than standard locks

High Impact

Tool Safes & Lock Boxes

Secure high-value tools in bolted-down safes inside your van

Medium

Alarm Systems

Van alarms with shock sensors and door triggers

Medium

Window Tinting & Covers

Hide valuable tools from view with privacy glass or covers

📍 Smart Parking & Habits

Free

Choose Parking Locations Wisely

Well-lit areas with CCTV and foot traffic

Free

Remove Tools Overnight

Take valuable tools inside when possible

Free

Vary Your Routine

Don't park in the same spot every night

Low Cost

Tool Marking & Engraving

Mark tools with your name/phone to deter theft

💡 Insurance Tip

Many insurers offer premium discounts for vans with approved security systems. Check with your insurer about which security upgrades qualify for discounts - they could pay for themselves through reduced premiums.

Van Tool Theft Statistics NZ

47%
Of tradies experience van tool theft within 5 years
$18,500
Average value of tools stolen per incident
3-5 AM
Peak time for van break-ins

Most Common Theft Scenarios

Highest Risk Situations:

  • Overnight parking on residential streets (35%)
  • Shopping center car parks (22%)
  • Job sites during lunch breaks (18%)
  • Home driveways (15%)
  • Pub/restaurant parking (10%)

Most Stolen Tools:

  • Power tool sets (drill, saw, grinder)
  • Laptops and tablets
  • Specialized trade tools
  • Tool bags and boxes
  • Copper piping and wire

Getting Back to Work Quickly

🔧 Immediate Tool Replacement

Rental Options:

  • Kennards Hire - power tools and equipment
  • Hirepool - comprehensive tool range
  • Local trade suppliers often offer rental
  • Check if insurance covers rental costs

Emergency Purchases:

  • Buy only essential tools immediately
  • Keep receipts for insurance claims
  • Consider financing options for large purchases
  • Wait for insurance payout before full replacement

💼 Business Continuity

Client Communication:

  • Contact clients about potential delays
  • Explain situation professionally
  • Provide updated timelines
  • Consider subcontracting urgent work

Financial Support:

  • Check if you have income protection insurance
  • Consider business loan for urgent replacements
  • Speak to accountant about tax deductions
  • Explore trade supplier payment terms

Tool Theft FAQ

Common questions about stolen tools and insurance claims

Will insurance pay out if I left my van unlocked?

Most insurance policies require you to take reasonable security precautions. If your van was unlocked, this may void your claim. However, each case is assessed individually - contact your insurer immediately to discuss your specific situation.

How long do I have to report stolen tools to insurance?

You should report the theft to your insurer as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours. Most policies require notification within 30 days, but delays can complicate your claim. The sooner you report, the better.

Do I need receipts for all my stolen tools?

While receipts help prove ownership and value, they're not always essential. Photos, serial numbers, insurance valuations, or trade supplier invoices can also be used as proof. Keep digital copies of all tool purchases.

Can I claim for tools stolen from a job site?

This depends on your policy. Some tool insurance covers theft from worksites, while others only cover tools in locked vehicles or secure storage. Check your policy wording or contact your insurer to clarify.

What if my tools were stolen along with my van?

If your van was also stolen, you'll need to claim on both your vehicle insurance and tool insurance. Report both thefts to police and both insurers immediately. Provide the same police report number to both insurers.

How much will my insurance excess be?

Excess amounts vary by insurer and policy, typically ranging from $250-$750. Some policies have higher excess for theft claims. Your excess amount should be clearly stated in your policy documents.

Can I prevent the theft being recorded against my van's history?

Theft reports will appear on police records and may affect your van's history. However, this typically doesn't significantly impact resale value as theft is not considered the owner's fault, unlike accidents.

Will my premiums go up after a theft claim?

Theft claims may affect your premiums at renewal, but this varies by insurer. Some insurers don't penalize theft claims as they're not your fault, while others may apply small increases. Shop around at renewal time.

Ready to Protect Your Tools?

Get comprehensive tool insurance coverage in minutes. Compare quotes from New Zealand's leading insurers and find the perfect protection for your trade business.

Get Instant Quote Compare Providers

✓ Instant quotes ✓ No obligation ✓ Local NZ coverage