Tool theft in London rises 70% in three years as £11m worth of equipment stolen
London is facing a growing “tool theft epidemic”, with figures revealing a sharp rise in vans being targeted across the capital.
Freedom of Information (FOI) data obtained from the Metropolitan Police and analysed by MoneySuperMarket, shows tool thefts from vans increased by 70% over the three-year period of 2021 to 2024. Reported incidents rose from 5,598 in 2021 to 9,559 in 2024.
In 2024 alone, the total value of tools stolen across London’s 32 boroughs reached £11 million.
For many self-employed tradespeople, stolen tools can mean cancelled jobs, loss of income and significant costs to replacing essential equipment.
London’s tool theft hotspots
The data also revealed the London boroughs with the highest number of reported tool thefts in 2024. Barnet came out on top with a shocking 742 reported thefts, followed by Hillingdon (596) and Enfield (567).
Political pressure to protect tradespeople
The enormity of the problem has prompted political action. In 2025, a Trades Union led a van rally involving over 300 drivers travelling to Westminster to demand tougher enforcement and stronger penalties for the resale of stolen tools.
More than 46,000 people have signed a petition backing the campaign and the Theft of Tools of Trade Bill is currently scheduled for its second reading in May 2026.
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