Kompare

Van

Does van insurance cover my tools?

A standard van policy covers the vehicle, not the tools inside it. Learn how tools in transit cover works and what insurers expect for security.

Usually no. A standard van motor policy covers the vehicle, not the tools and equipment inside it. To protect your tools you need separate cover, such as tools in transit or goods in transit.

What your motor policy does and doesn't cover

Van insurance is designed to cover the vehicle itself, your liability to other people and, depending on your level of cover, damage to your van. The contents are treated separately.

  • Covered: the van, accidents, fire and theft of the vehicle (subject to your cover level).
  • Not covered: tools, stock and equipment stolen from or damaged inside the van.

Many tradespeople are caught out after a break-in when they find their tools were never insured under the motor policy.

How to protect your tools

A dedicated tools in transit policy covers equipment carried in your van against theft and damage. It is often available as an add-on alongside van or tradesman cover.

Insurers usually expect reasonable security, such as a locked van, and many will not pay out for tools left in the vehicle unattended overnight. Some also ask for extra security such as a van alarm or approved locks. Check:

  • The overall limit and any single-item limit
  • The excess you would pay on a claim
  • Any overnight or unattended vehicle exclusions
  • Whether it covers tools at a job site as well as in the van

Make sure the limit matches the value of what you carry.

Many tradespeople also look at public liability cover, which can help if your work causes injury or damage to someone else. See our tradesman insurance page for more. If you carry other people's goods, see courier insurance.

Getting a quote

Fill in a short form on our van insurance page and mention that you want tools cover. A specialist FCA-authorised broker from our panel will contact you about quotes. You can read more about how we work.