Construction sites are busy areas, with plenty of comings and goings, which increases the risk of tool theft. Did you know that, unless you fill out a tool declaration form ahead of time, your employer does not have to compensate you for the value of your tools, if they are stolen or damaged?
Here’s what you need to know about your responsibilities and those of your employer:
Your responsibility as a worker
When you start working for an employer, you need to provide them with a list of the personal tools you will use on the job, along with their value. Keep your invoices.
If you purchase a new tool, add it to your list and give your employer an updated copy of that list.
It’s also a good idea to identify your tools and work clothes with a label, engraving or some other distinctive marking.
Depending on your trade, occupation or sector, you are responsible for “proving” that a loss or theft occurred. How much your employer will compensate you will vary based on your trade or occupation.
Ask your union advisor for a tool declaration template now. We distribute it on worksites. You’ll also get a QR code inserted in your 2025 union booklet, which will be mailed out in December.
Give your declaration to your employer, but take a photo of it for your records.
Your employer’s responsibilities
Your employer must secure the worksite to prevent the theft or loss of tools or equipment.
Collective agreements require employers to provide a secure, easily accessible place for tools and work clothes to be stored (unless you work in the light residential sector).
Agreements also state that an employer must compensate you if your tools or work clothes are stolen or lost, but only if you have provided them with an inventory and supporting documents.
The tools you need for the job
You’ll need to bring along the tools that your trade traditionally requires, as specified in your sector’s collective agreement. Your employer cannot ask you to provide a tool that is not in the list.
Please contact our team if you have questions or experience issues with your employer, or if you want to get a copy of our tool declaration template.
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