Does my van insurance cover tools?
Are your tools covered in your van insurance policy? Can you afford not to be sure? Find out in this handy guide.
Key takeaways
Most van insurance policies don’t automatically cover tools so check your policy details or consider taking out extra cover if you have tools in your van
Separate tool insurance offers benefits like enhanced security and tailored cover, but work out if its worth it before signing on the dotted line
Other ways to insure tools left in your van include standalone policies, extending van insurance or using home insurance, each with different pros and cons
Does my van insurance cover tools?
Probably not. You don’t need us to tell you how expensive tools are so most typical van insurance policies don’t include tool cover as standard, unless it is clearly stated in your policy document.
Van insurance generally means you're covered for any damage to, loss or theft of the vehicle, but not necessarily for the contents you keep inside it. Professional equipment such as tools are unlikely to be covered unless you add in extra cover.
But because the insurance industry understands that most trades carry valuable equipment every day as an essential part of the job, you can extend your existing van insurance to include tool cover.
Often referred to as 'carriage of own goods' cover, it groups your insurance into one policy. However, it may not always provide as comprehensive cover as a standalone policy.
Add up the total value of replacing your tools (rather than what you think your current tools are worth) to work out how much tool cover you need
Will you really empty your kit out of your van every day? Or religiously park your vehicle off the street? All these and other details will affect your premiums, but the circumstances of a loss or theft could mean the difference between a pay out and a refusal
Compare details and prices from a range of insurers to find the right cover for your needs. We can help with that…
How to choose the right cover
What’s your tool value?
Be honest
Shop around
Do I need separate cover for my tools?
Maybe. As well as your van cover, if you regularly store or carry high value or unusual equipment in your van, you might need to invest in a separate insurance policy for tools, other equipment or professional belongings.
Before you decide, here are some things to consider:
A dedicated policy protects your tools from theft, loss, or damage
You can customise your policy to cover the real value of your tools without covering items you don’t have or need
Using specialised insurers for this kind of cover can make claims quicker to settle, reducing downtime and the chances of losing jobs and income while you get everything replaced
Without separate cover, replacing stolen or damaged tools can be eye-watering – potentially running to thousands of pounds, depending on your kit
General van insurance might not cover tools, leaving you out of pocket if you have to replace everything yourself
Enhanced security
Personalised cover
Quick claims processing
Financial loss
Limited pay out
Are there other ways to insure the tools in my van?
Yes. There are other options, like a standalone tool insurance policy. This will cover the cost of replacing tools if they're lost, damaged, or stolen.
Some home insurance policies might also extend to cover tools, even when they’re stored in your van. Check your policy details to make sure you’re covered when tools are outside your home and that they’re valued appropriately.
Don’t forget to factor in the impact of losing your kit on your business when choosing your cover, too.
What happens if my van is stolen?
When your van is stolen, you'll need to act fast:
First, report the theft to the police to start the wheels in motion for recovery if possible and starting an insurance claim or claims.
Be sure to get and careful note your crime reference number. You’ll need that for the next step - contacting your insurance provider to start your claim.
It helps to have your policy document or number to hand when you do, but they should be able to find your details. They’ll then talk you through the process and next steps.
Your insurance provider will investigate the circumstances of the theft, including whether the van was locked, if it was in a location covered by your policy, and what tools or materials were in it at the time.
This process will decide whether your claim is accepted and the total pay out you are offered. If you are unhappy with the decision, you can formally appeal it or even approach the Financial Ombudsman for help.
It may not seem very fair but if your van is stolen, it may affect your future insurance premiums. Insurers might view you as a higher risk, leading to increased premiums.
Think about adding extra security measures or changing the ways you use the van to help keep a lid on premium hikes if you can.
Step 1: Report the theft to the police
Step 2: Insurance assessment
Step 3: Future insurance
Do I need proof of ownership for tools insurance?
Yes. Most insurers expect some form of proof of ownership when you take out a tool insurance policy. Receipts or invoices for purchases are best, but serial numbers, photos of the tools, or warranty cards may also be accepted.
Always store purchase receipts safely with digital back-ups like scanned copies or cloud-stored photograph if you can. Registering your tools with the manufacturer may also prove ownership.
When it comes to insurance claims, proof really is king.
How to choose the right van insurance for your needs
Comparing quotes with MoneySuperMarket is easy and stress-free. We help you find the best insurance to suit your needs. Whether you need private van insurance, business van cover, or courier van insurance, we've got you covered.
