It could happen to any landscaper: arriving at the ute at the start of the day reveals thieves have taken off with the vehicle – and the tools and equipment kept locked and secured inside.
That’s what happened to one NSW tradie interviewed by 7News this past September. Somebody stole a ute with thousands of dollars worth of tools. Tools the tradie had collected over 10 years were gone overnight. The theft was especially tough because the tradie was a sole trader, so replacing the ute and nicked tools fell completely on his shoulders.
Tool theft: who’s next?
With property crime on the rise, there’s a risk of more landscape contractors finding themselves in the same boat. Australian Bureau of Statistics’ data recorded over 60,000 motor-vehicle thefts across the country in 2023, a nine per cent increase from the previous year.
But while tools and equipment may be a lucky find for some car thieves, others are targeting these items specifically. Nearly $40 million worth of tools were stolen in Victoria between October 2023 and September 2024 – up more than 22% compared to the year prior. Power tools and Tools were the sixth and seventh most stolen categories during that same period, with over 36,700 items stolen.
Protect your tools with BizCover
Landscape contractors have become resourceful when it comes to keeping tools and equipment safe – think car alarms, locking up toolboxes and storage sheds, attaching GPS tags to items, and installing security cameras – but sometimes the best efforts are no match for crafty criminals.
That’s why you might want to consider insuring your landscaping tools. Portable Equipment* insurance, an optional part of a Business Insurance Pack*, may cover you for loss and damage to your tools and stock due to theft, fire and other perils listed in the policy wording.
So, if your tools are nicked (despite keeping them securely locked up or under your watch), Portable Equipment insurance may help you replace them.
Landscape contractors can find Portable Equipment, Theft, Public Liability insurance and other essential cover on the go with BizCover. Compare policies, buy online and get covered in minutes.
Visit bizcover.com.au or give the BizCover office a call on 1300 805 821 today.
* This information is general only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. It should not be relied upon as advice. As with any insurance, cover will be subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions contained in the policy wording. The news story cited is for illustrative purposes only and should not be seen as an indication as to how any potential claim will be assessed or accepted. © 2025 BizCover Pty Limited, all rights reserved. ABN 68 127 707 975; AFSL 501769