Protecting your farm from fuel theft

The hidden cost

The impact of fuel theft often results in not just financial loss, but disruption, damage and significant inconvenience.

Thieves frequently leave behind damaged tanks, broken locks, cut fencing and spilt fuel, posing potential environmental risks and require time-consuming clean-up.

For many farms, this disruption happens at critical times of year. Machinery left without fuel delays work being done and means additional time is spent repairing damage or improving security. The inconvenience and knock-on costs can quickly escalate.

How to reduce fuel theft risk

Dorset Police encourages farmers to take these proactive steps to protect fuel supplies:

· Improve visibility: Fuel tanks are vulnerable, particularly when out of sight or in remote areas of the farm. Try to position tanks near buildings or within sight of the farmhouse where possible

· Secure storage: Use fencing, gates or natural barriers such as hedges to restrict access

· Lighting and surveillance: Install CCTV and motion-activated or dusk-to-dawn lighting

· Stay vigilant: Fuel theft is often not a quick crime, with vehicles and time spent on site. Look out for warning signs such as unfamiliar vehicles in the local area, disturbed ground or unusual activity, particularly at night.

· Monitor regularly: Check fuel levels and inspect tanks for tampering or leaks

· Store mobile equipment safely: Keep bowsers locked away when not in use

· Make fuel traceable: Consider using fuel dyes to deter theft and aid recovery 

Always report crime

Dorset Police urges farmers to report all suspicious activity to help protect both your farm and neighbouring businesses.

· If you see a crime taking place or there’s a threat to life, call 999

· In a non-emergency call 101 or report a crime on your local police team’s website

· To report a crime anonymously, contact Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Don’t overlook underinsurance

When costs are rising, it’s important to check your insurance cover reflects current values.

As well as fuel, fertiliser and other farm supplies have also seen significant price increases, making it essential to review your cover regularly and ensure it remains accurate.

Underinsurance can leave you exposed if the value of stored fuel or agricultural inputs exceeds the level of cover on your policy. In the event of a claim, this could result in only a partial payout, leaving you to cover the shortfall yourself.

While no farm is immune to theft, taking preventative action and reviewing your insurance cover can make a significant difference. Protecting your business against both the immediate loss and the wider impact of an incident will help you recover more quickly.

For advice on protecting your farm and reviewing your cover, speak to your local Field Insurance Advisor or call our Member Services team on 01872 277151.