2016-11-18

Whether you're a plumber or an electrician, a carpenter or gas engineer, if you use tools or machinery for your job then you'll know how much your livelihood and finances could be affected if they were lost or stolen. Quality tools are often expensive to buy and tool insurance is often essential for a busy tradesman.

With winter in full-swing and Christmas approaching, we're expecting a peak in claims. So, how could you protect your tools to make sure you don't miss out on work this festive season?

Securely Store Your Tools

You may want to keep your tools close-by and at hand whenever you may need them, but it is important to make sure that no one else can get their hands on them when you're not looking.

Safe storage in a lockable tool chest that is kept safely stored in the back of your van is essential for protecting your tools. Leaving them unattended in a public place is not advisable.

Using a chest or box will mean your tools are easy to transport, well-organised and easy to find when you need them. The container will also protect them from rust and other damage when they're not in use, by restricting dampness.

Inspect and Clean Your Tools

Inspecting your tools for damage and cleaning them after every use is essential for long term maintenance. It may take time out of your day, but it'll be worth the effort in the long run.

Hand tools can easily be cleaned with an old rag or soap and water if they're particularly grubby. You should be especially careful when cleaning power tools; make sure they're turned off and disconnected from the main power supply, then wipe down the tool and lubricate any moving parts using the oil-based product recommended in the manufacturer's handbook the tool was sold with.

Once cleaned you'll be able to see if any parts are loose or cracked, if heads have mushroomed or housing has cracked. Early detection is essential for increasing your chances of a repair job and minimising the risk of needing a replacement.

Keep Them Covered

Sometimes, however securely you store your tools or however much time you spend on upkeep, things happen. Vans are broken into and tools give in to years of wear and tear. In order to minimise downtime and keep you working during the most expensive time of year, tool cover should be taken out.

Tool cover, which is often a part of trade insurance, will ensure that should your equipment become damaged or stolen, replacements can be sourced quickly and at little expense. To learn more about trade insurance and compare quotes online click here or call our friendly team on 0800 470 4648.