Lets Talk Tool Cover for Tradies: What’s Covered and What’s Not
When you’re on the tools every day, the last thing you need is the stress of stolen or damaged gear. Whether you’re a chippy, sparky, plumber or brickie, your tools are your livelihood. That’s why tool cover for tradies isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s essential.
What Is Tool Cover?
Tool cover is insurance designed to protect your work tools against theft, damage, fire, and in some cases, accidental loss. It’s often bundled with public liability insurance, but can also be added on as a standalone option.
At ProTrades, we help tradies get tool cover that actually pays out when it counts.
What Does Tool Cover for Tradies Include?
Most tradie tool insurance policies cover:
Power tools, hand tools, and specialty gear
Bolted toolboxes on your ute or trailer
Theft from locked vehicles or secured sites
Fire and accidental damage
Optional hire cover while you replace stolen gear
Some policies can also cover:
Portable electronics like lasers or testing meters
New-for-old replacement
Loss during transit (e.g. on the way to site)
What’s Not Covered?
There are common exclusions in most tool insurance policies:
Tools left in unlocked vehicles or open sites
General wear and tear
Tools loaned out to others
Theft without evidence of forced entry
Bottom line: Tool cover is only useful if your gear is secured. Read the PDS, or better yet — speak to a broker.
What Does Tool Cover Cost?
So, what actually determines the price of tool insurance? The biggest factor is the total amount you choose to insure your tools for — also known as your sums insured. This varies from tradie to tradie depending on the type and value of your gear, and whether you’re working solo or running a crew.
At ProTrades, we tailor tool cover to suit your trade and budget. For example, a $7,500 cover amount can start from around $288 per year, and monthly payments are available at no extra cost to help with cash flow.
Other Factors That Influence Tool Insurance Pricing:
Your Trade – Some trades use more expensive or high-risk tools, which can impact premiums.
Number of Workers – If you’ve got a team and more gear floating around, the risk is higher — and that can affect pricing.
Business Size & Revenue – Larger businesses often need higher cover limits, which may increase the cost.
Is Tool Insurance Worth It?
That’s up to you — but knowing your gear is covered against theft, fire, and damage can give you peace of mind on the job.
Want to find out if it’s right for you? Give our tradie-focused team a call or get a quick online quote. We’ll walk you through what’s covered, what’s not, and what it’ll cost — no fluff, no pressure.
Need the fine print? Download our full policy wording for all the details on events, exclusions, and sub-limits.
Why Tradies Trust Us here at ProTrades Insurance
We specialise in insurance for tradies, not generic business cover. When you call us, you’re not getting a call centre — you’re getting real advice from brokers who work with tradies every day.
Need a proper policy that protects your gear?
👉 Get a quick quote now
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FAQ: Tool Insurance for Tradies
Q: Is tool insurance tax-deductible?
A: Yes, premiums for work-related tool insurance are usually tax-deductible for sole traders and businesses in Australia.
Q: Can I insure tools left in my ute overnight?
A: Only if they’re stored in a locked toolbox or compartment. Most insurers require evidence of forced entry for theft claims.
Q: Does tool insurance cover accidental damage?
A: Many policies do, especially if the damage happens on-site. Check the PDS or ask us for tailored cover.