BBC figures have revealed that tools are being stolen from tradespeople across the UK approximately every 20 minutes.

Tool theft has become a serious and increasingly disruptive problem for Britain’s tradespeople, threatening livelihoods, small businesses and the ability of skilled workers to earn a living. Portsmouth North MP Amanda Martin has been campaigning for stronger action, arguing that the theft of essential work equipment should be treated as far more than a straightforward property crime.

Her campaign, the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill, seeks to change how the criminal justice system recognises and sentences tool theft. The central argument is that the impact of these crimes extends well beyond the financial value of the tools themselves. A stolen toolkit can mean missed contracts, lost earnings, damaged vehicles, increased insurance costs and significant emotional distress.

Where does the campaign stand in Parliament?

Amanda Martin formally introduced her Private Member’s Bill in the House of Commons in April 2025. The proposal aims to ensure that sentencing reflects the wider harm caused by stealing tools of someone’s trade.

The campaign focuses on two important changes:

• Recognising the theft of tools of trade as an example of significant additional harm when courts assess the seriousness of an offence.
• Ensuring sentencing takes account of the wider financial consequences, including vehicle damage, lost earnings and business disruption, rather than simply the value of the stolen equipment.

The Bill has also attracted cross-party support, with MPs recognising the devastating consequences for tradespeople and small businesses.

The original Bill did not progress to its second reading and formally fell at the end of the 2024–26 parliamentary session, awaiting that stage. It did not become law in its original form.

Martin subsequently secured progress through the Government’s wider Sentencing Bill, which became the Sentencing Act 2026. During parliamentary consideration in January 2026, she highlighted the need for tougher consequences for repeat tool theft offenders. She explained that the new measures would allow stronger restrictions on offenders, including electronic tagging and restrictions on where they can go following release.

The distinction is important: the original Private Member’s Bill did not pass, but the wider campaign has helped secure changes through separate legislation. The specific proposal to name tool theft in sentencing guidance remains an important part of the campaign’s wider ambitions.

The BBC’s latest figures underline the scale of the problem

The urgency of Martin’s campaign has been reinforced by the BBC’s latest report, Traders’ tools stolen every 20 minutes in UK.

According to the BBC’s analysis, at least 26,164 tool thefts were recorded in 2025, based on information supplied by 30 police forces. This equates to a reported tool theft approximately every 20 minutes across the UK.

One business owner, Jon Jacznik of Drywall Contracts suffered three separate tool thefts in 18 months. He said: “One of our sites was broken into resulting in seven tool vaults being emptied. But the financial impact goes far beyond the tools stolen – there is the cost of replacing equipment, delays to work, lost productivity and the disruption of having to reorganise jobs. Even security equipment such as tool vaults can cost around £700 to replace.

“Whether it’s a van break-in or a site break-in, the impact on businesses and operatives is devastating. As an industry, we need a different approach because what we’re doing now clearly isn’t working.”

What needs to happen next?

While tougher sentencing is an important step, the market for stolen tools also needs to be addressed. FIS is looking to engage with Police Forces across the UK to see a greater emphasis placed on tool theft and how forensic marking on tools can play its part in driving down tool theft.

Jacznik believes that there are practical steps businesses and tradespeople can take to reduce the risk, such as trackers to help locate stolen equipment and support police investigations, security markings on tools and tool storage to help with identification and cross-checking if items are recovered and businesses and individuals should also be cautious about buying or accepting tools without chargers, or tools being sold separately from their usual equipment, as these could indicate the tool is stolen.

He also believes that the above measures need to be part of a wider security approach, not the only line of defence. Sites need appropriate, monitored alarm systems and secure tool storage to deter thieves.

These latest figures from the BBC provide a stark reminder that this is not an isolated problem affecting a handful of tradespeople. With more than 26,000 recorded thefts in a single year, the issue affects businesses, employees, families and the wider economy.

Tradespeople should be able to leave home to earn an honest living without worrying that, when they return, their livelihood will have been stolen.

FIS research has identified growing concern among major fit-out contractors about the quality and maturity of the design information they receive. The main issues are:

• Inconsistent stage descriptions. Packages described as “Stage 3”, “Stage 3+” or “Stage 4” vary widely in how far the design has actually been developed.
• No means of testing upstream design. Contractors have little opportunity to test the design they inherit before they are asked to price it, and then rely on it.
• Confusion at novation. When design passes to the contractor, it is often unclear which decisions have been made, which remain open and who is responsible for closing them.
• A shortfall in coordination. Principal Designers are often providing less coordination than contractors anticipate.
• Unplanned design transfer. Package designers are increasingly expected to resolve decisions that should have been settled earlier. They are frequently asked to do so without the corresponding fee, programme, information or insurance cover.

All of these are made worse by the speed of fit-out delivery, which research by the University of Reading has identified as a defining characteristic of the sector. Compressed programmes leave little time to resolve design before responsibility moves on.

The next phase of FIS work responds to these concerns in two parts.

1. A consistent test of design maturity

The FIS Fit-out Design Framework has been developed to work alongside the RIBA Plan of Work.  It does not attempt to replace, but  to build on the Plan.  RIBA stages mark progress through a project. The Framework adds a Checkpoint at the close of each stage, which tests what has been decided, evidenced and accepted, and by whom.

Each design element is at the checkpoint declared Confirmed, Nominal or Unresolved. This gives contractors a clear basis for distinguishing what they are being asked to price from what they are being asked to design. It also gives them a defined point at which to test inherited design.  At novation, the principle is simple: the designer changes, but the design does not. Any gaps that are inherited remain open until they are defined, priced and accepted.

Stage 4 is divided into two Checkpoints:

Ready to Price: the information is sufficient to tender without transferring hidden design to the specialist.

Technically Complete: the system is proven, fully defined and ready for procurement and ultimately construction.

2. Flexible internal wall systems as the first application

Partitions, linings and ceilings sit at the apex of the problem. They deliver critical fire, acoustic and structural performance, yet are designed late in the programme and inherit every unresolved upstream decision. Only 2% of dryliners report that they always start on site with adequate information to build accurately.

Two documents apply the Framework to this package:

• • the Flexible Internal Wall Systems Design Code of Practice; and
  • the FIS Dry Lining Checklists.

Together they define, at each Checkpoint, what the lead designer, the Principal Designer and the package designer are each expected to provide. This establishes a clear boundary between what the package designer inherits and what it designs.  Similar Codes and Checklists will be produced for other relevant packages once the format is established.

Consultation

FIS invites comment from main contractors, specialist contractors, designers, engineers and Principal Designers. In particular, we would welcome views on:

• whether the issues described reflect members’ experience;
• whether the Checkpoints are workable on live programmes; and
• whether members would be willing to pilot the approach on a live or recent tender.

The consultation closes on 12 December 2026

You can view the draft documents here:

• Flexible Internal Wall Systems Design Code of Practice (Draft)
• Drylining Checklist (Draft)
• Fit-out Design Code of Practice (Draft)

To feed in your views or request the documents / register interest in a pilot, please contact jamesparlour@thefis.org

FIS will help address skills shortages and improve access to specialist training across the fit-out, drylining and plastering industries through the Construction Industry Training Board’s (CITB) Specialist Upskilling Fund.

FIS is one of 11 organisations selected following a strong response to the initiative, which aims to remove barriers to specialist construction training and create more opportunities for workers to develop their skills and achieve recognised qualifications, including National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs).

Through the project, FIS will work with employers and training providers to identify skills gaps, strengthen workforce development and ensure workers have the competence needed to meet the changing demands of the industry. The initiative will also help businesses access affordable, high quality, sector specific training and guidance, with a focus on progression towards recognised qualifications.

How can FIS help?

Accessing the right training and qualifications can be challenging, particularly in specialist areas of construction. FIS will support employers through Training Needs Analysis (TNA), offering one-to-one sessions with its skills team to identify workforce skills gaps, assess training requirements and explore the most appropriate training and qualification opportunities.

The support is designed to help businesses:

• Strengthen workforce skills – Upskill teams and develop the specialist skills needed for the future.
• Address skills gaps – Identify workforce training needs and access high-quality, sector-specific training.
• Gain recognised qualifications – Support progression towards relevant industry NVQs.

Could your workforce benefit?

Whether you are looking to develop your team’s skills, address specific training needs or help employees gain specialist qualifications, the initiative provides an opportunity to identify the right support for your business.

Get in touch with FIS (beenanana@thefis.org/marieflinter@thefis.org) to discuss your workforce training needs and find out how a Training Needs Analysis can help identify the right training and qualification opportunities for your business.

FIS has launched a revised Client Guide to Office Fit-Out and Refurbishment to promote best practice in the fit-out process and to take account of new working practices and advances in sustainability.

The situation post-Covid and Grenfell has fundamentally changed the way business environments are used, with ever-increasing agile working and online meetings being the new norms, not the exceptions.  This guide aims to guide you through the process from the initial decision as to whether to refurbish an existing office or relocate and fit-out new premises, through to post-occupancy evaluation.

The authors of this guide understand that not all those involved or sanctioning projects are fully conversant with statutory rules, and may not be industry professionals. With this in mind, a step by-step approach has been produced that clearly identifies all processes from initial concept to successful completion and handover. 

To further support, FIS has also developed the guide into e-learning to provide an interactive alternative. It reflects on the driving forces behind changes to office space design from the responsibilities of a client and other implications of the Building Safety Act such as the interaction with ‘higher risk buildings’ (as defined in the legislation), and how to consider the impact in the early stages of planning a fit-out.  It also reflects the evolution and rapid maturation of best practices and methods of measurement relating to sustainability.

Commenting on the launch of this updated guide, FIS Technical Director James Parlour said:

“Clarity over process and expectations in the fit-out process benefits clients, designers and contractors alike. The guide is aligned with the RIBA plan of works and lays the groundwork for better design that dramatically reduces the risk of delays and non-compliance during the construction phase.”

The guide is freely available from the FIS website at https://www.thefis.org/membership-hub/publications/fit-out/client-guide-to-fit-out/ and the e-learning can be accessed via the FIS Academy at https://www.thefis.org/skills-hub/training-offers-for-members/fis-training-modules/clients-guide-office-fit-out-refurbishment/

The FIS Conference and Innovation Awards brought together industry professionals yesterday for a day of insight, innovation and collaboration, exploring the key opportunities and challenges shaping the future of the finishes and interiors sector.

Discussions covered a broad range of topics, including the construction outlook, regulation, sustainability, artificial intelligence, future skills and supply-chain collaboration, highlighting the importance of working together to drive positive change across the industry.

FIS would like to thank all speakers, panellists, sponsors, exhibitors and delegates for their valuable contributions, thought-provoking discussions and commitment to sharing knowledge and challenging established thinking.

Congratulations also go to all the winners of the FIS Innovation Awards, recognising the ideas, products and initiatives helping to drive progress across the sector.

While the conference provided an opportunity to reflect on current challenges and emerging opportunities, its lasting impact will be measured by what happens next: turning ideas into action, strengthening industry relationships and delivering meaningful improvements through collaboration.

Under the theme Product, Process, People: Raising the Bar Together, the event reinforced the importance of continued innovation and collective action in building a stronger, more sustainable and forward-thinking industry.

CROSS has received several Safety Reports raising concerns about the use of construction products where application-specific fire test evidence is unavailable, or where the available evidence does not directly reflect the intended use.

In these circumstances, fire performance may be supported by a combination of test data and engineering assessment, or sometimes by general statements about expected performance. However, the Reports received by CROSS suggest that the basis for these assurances is not always clearly defined, and the level of confidence conveyed may not be proportionate to the evidence available.

This Topic Paper explores how fire test evidence is interpreted in practice, the role of assessment in supporting that evidence, and the wider implications for product assurance across the built environment.

A valuable read for those involved in fire safety, fire engineering, building design, construction, building control and product manufacture and supply.

Read the Topic Paper: https://bit.ly/4ziuJgp

New CEO appointed as members elect their representatives for the year ahead, with Justin Devaney taking up the Presidency for a two-year term.

FIS is pleased to announce the appointment of Helen Gawor as its new Chief Executive Officer from January 2027, alongside the newly elected Board of Directors, following a member vote to elect representatives who will help shape the direction of the organisation over the coming year.

The appointment of a new CEO marks an important chapter for FIS as it continues to champion the finishes and interiors sector, support its members and respond to the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. Working closely with the Board and FIS Team, Helen will lead the organisation in delivering on its strategic objectives, working collaboratively to represent members, address industry challenges and support a stronger future for the sector. 

Speaking of her appointment, Helen said:

“FIS has established itself as a strong and respected voice for the sector, and I’m proud to have the opportunity to build on that work.

“Our members deliver quality every day, often in challenging market conditions and under commercial pressure. My priority will be to support them in building resilient businesses, demonstrating their value and competence, and turning this into real competitive advantage.

“We will continue to champion the interests of our members, working with government, clients and the wider industry to drive fairer procurement, contract and payment practices. These are fundamental to improving productivity, raising standards and creating a stronger, more sustainable sector.

“I’m grateful to the Board for their confidence in me and look forward to working with the FIS team and our members to build on the strong foundations Iain has built”.

This year also marks a changeover of Presidency, with Justin Devaney of FIS Contractor Member Platt & Reilly taking up the role for a two-year term with Lucia Di Stazio stepping into the role of Vice President.  These appointments come at an important time for the sector, with FIS firmly focused on supporting its members through the challenges ahead, helping them build resilience, strengthen their businesses and be well-positioned to take advantage of opportunities as the sector recovers.

The election gives FIS members an important opportunity to have their say in the leadership of the organisation, ensuring that the Board reflects the views, priorities and interests of the membership.  The newly elected Directors will play a key role in guiding the work of FIS, supporting its members and helping the organisation continue to champion competence, collaboration and technical best practice across the sector.

The elected contractor candidates are:

Mick Dillon – OCL Facades

Andrew Measom – Measom Dryline

Hamanvir Manak – Stanmore

And the elected supplier candidates are:

Sharon Baker – Avonside Supplies

Richard Mason – Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions – British Gypsum

Craig Newman – CCF

These individuals will join existing Board members, Justin Devaney – FIS President (Platt and Reilly), Lucia Di Stazio – FIS Vice President (Encon Group), Ian Strangward  – FIS Immediate Past President (Architectural Wallsz), Jim Brennan (Nova Plasterboard Systems), Richard Grimes (Grimes Finishings) and Elizabeth McDermott (QuickFix Profiles).

FIS would like to thank all members who took the time to participate in the vote, as well as everyone who put themselves forward for election. Member engagement is vital to ensuring that FIS continues to represent the breadth and diversity of businesses and professionals working across the sector.

The Construction Industry Joint Council (CIJC) has agreed a staggered increase in holiday entitlement over the next two years.

From 1 January 2027, an additional half day will be introduced, taking the annual entitlement up to 23.5 days (plus eight bank holidays). Another half day will then be added from 1 January 2028, taking the total to 24 days. An updated Holiday Entitlement for 2027 will be made available to members in December.

The Construction Leadership Council has published practitioner guidance setting out the behavioural principles that should be applied when developing, reviewing and auditing fire risk assessments (FRA) and fire risk appraisals of external walls (FRAEW).

The advisory note provides information for those directly and indirectly impacted by the undertaking these assessments and appraisals. This includes, but is not limited to:

1. Authors
2. Reviewers
3. Auditors
4. Commissioning parties
5. Regulatory bodies
6. Lenders, valuers and other parties relying upon the outputs
7. Any identified stakeholder of the bodies listed above.

The guidance can be found here.

The British Standards Institution recently published a revised edition of the code of practice for FRAEW. PAS 9980: 2026 can be found here.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has also published FRAEW supporting guidance which aims to help non-technical users understand the appraisals of their external walls, what to consider when commissioning an FRAEW and how to interpret the report findings. The supporting guidance can be found here.