Are there certain places you REFUSE to park your van?

Tool theft remains a huge issue for tradespeople, and heating engineer Ian Briggs, known as IRB Heating on social media, asked his followers whether they avoid parking in certain places because they’re worried their van will be targeted by tool thieves.

In the Instagram post, Ian asked if other tradespeople get that sinking feeling when parking in some areas that seem more vulnerable to tool thieves.

He said: “You roll the dice on your van’s security when you park it in certain places. And as we know, some places are higher risk than others. I hate it. Anxiety levels get HIGH! It’s a truly horrible feeling isn’t it?”

The post has had thousands of views and comments, with the majority agreeing that parking can feel like a gamble in certain areas.

@kris8843h said: “It’s such a horrible feeling now and it can get me down now just the thought my van getting done over.”

@stolen_tools_uk_ said: “Sad times we live in mate but good to stay vigilant.”

@shanetheplumb said: “Mate I do the same thing. Have a scan of the people swanning about to see if any of them look like they’re likely to be doing my van or not. It’s so sad that these are the situations we find ourselves in 🤦🏼‍♂️”

@berrywoodcontractors said: “Park right outside the doors run in order then sit in your van, van anxiety I think is a thing I hate parking in places it’s ridiculous but also essential to be cautious. It’s not a good world where it’s not safe to leave your van for 30mins and get broken into.”

Ian also included a poll in his post, with 42% of respondents saying they avoid some places known for tool theft.

What do you think? Join in the conversation on Ian’s post and tag in @installershow

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A post shared by I.R.B Heating (@irbheating)

InstallerSHOW 2026 will have lots of tips and advice on tackling tool theft – 23-25 June at the NEC. Register here: forms.reg.buzz/installer-show-2026