If you’re a hands-on tradie, your tools are the backbone of your business.Your day to day ability to lay blocks or run cables comes down to having your tools on hand to get the job done. With tool theft becoming increasingly common in New Zealand, losing your gear can lead to delays and cost you valuable time and money.
Here are the 3 ways you can protect your tools:
Have the right cover in place
Tools insurance is a must-have for every tradie. It’s not just about replacing stolen gear – it’s about keeping your business moving. The right policy ensures you’ll be covered! Investing in comprehensive tool insurance, you can avoid unexpected expenses and continue working without major disruptions.
Keep records of everything in your tool box
Maintaining an up-to-date inventory of your tools is crucial. Make a habit of photographing your tools, recording serial numbers, and keeping receipts in a safe place. This will make it easier to file an insurance claim if anything goes missing and help ensure you’re reimbursed accurately and quickly.
Take preventive measures
Preventing theft is just as important as insuring your tools. Always secure your tools when they’re not in use – whether that means locking them up in a toolbox or using secure storage solutions on job sites. Installing alarms or GPS trackers on valuable equipment can act as a deterrent and help recover stolen items faster.
If someone pulls a fast one on you, it’s good to know exactly what your insurance will cover. Here are a few things you might not realise that your Material Damage (Tools) cover also includes:
Portable electronic devices: Your phone, laptop, and iPad are covered. So, if your tech gets nicked, you’ll be sorted.
Money and wages: Whether it’s your takings or wages, if they’re locked up in a safe at your premises or in transit to the bank and get stolen, you’re covered according to your policy’s sublimits.
Employee’s personal effects: If any of your employee’s gear is stolen, we’ll cover it too. Protecting your team’s stuff means fewer headaches for you.
Software protection: If your laptop gets dropped in the mud, you can claim for the software too, up to the maximum of your insured amount. No need to lose all your work!
Theft from a locked vehicle: If your tools are stolen from a locked vehicle while you’re on the go, you’re covered within the policy sub limits – just be sure to lock up!