Your End-of-Year Tradie Knock Off Guide: Tools, Safety and Holiday Prep

December 10, 2025
Trades

The holidays are just around the corner, making it the perfect time to wrap up the year and enjoy some well-deserved downtime with family and mates. Before you knock off for the holidays, it’s important to check your worksite and ensure you’re finishing the year safely and responsibly.

Follow these few simple steps before heading off so you can enjoy the break stress-free.

  1. Secure Your Tools and Equipment

    With many worksites left unattended during the holiday season, it’s crucial to ensure your gear is safe and secured. Make sure your tools and equipment are maintained, locked away, and accounted for before you knock off.

    With imar, you can be covered for theft of tools or stock from locked vehicles or premises, as well as damage caused by the unexpected. Find out more about tool trade insurance and builders insurance so you’re not left out of pocket during the holidays.

  2. Leave Your Worksite Safe

    Inspect your worksite to ensure its safe for yourself and others. Take the time to clear debris or hazards, secure scaffolding and loose materials, and properly store leads and cords. Regularly test your tools and equipment, and place orders ahead for any new gear as needed.

    A safe worksite reduces the risks of accidents or client liability claims while you’re away. With public liability insurance, you will be covered for any accidents or damage caused by your worksite, even when you’re enjoying the holidays.

  3. Plan ahead and Communicate Early

    Staying organised ensures you can hit the ground running when you’re back on the tools. Avoid playing catch up by documenting your jobs, liaising with clients to confirm expectations, coordinating with contractors, and scheduling bookings in for the new year.

    All imar clients who pay one month, get a bonus six months of subscription with MYOB. Keep on top of your books with automatic payment reminders and get a clear summary of how your business is tracking.

  4. Protect Your RideYour vehicle is the backbone of your trade—carrying tools, transporting equipment, and hauling materials to keep your business running. During the holidays, vehicles are often left unattended and exposed to unpredictable weather or other risks.Unlike personal auto insurance, commercial motor vehicle insurance is specifically designed to protect your vehicle on the job. It covers theft, accidental damage, and unforeseen events, giving you a peace of mind while you’re on holiday. From utes to excavators, imar’s tailored insurance solutions can help keep your business moving forward.
  5. Prioritise Personal Safety

    As clients push to get projects finished before the new year, the pressure is on to meet deadlines which can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Make sure you take the time to stretch regularly, stay hydrated, and get enough rest to recharge for the new year.

    Your health is your most valuable asset. Taking care of yourself ensures you’re staying fit and ready to tackle the heavy projects set for the near year. If you’re unable to work, you can explore income protection insurance for support.

Knocking off right isn’t just about finishing the work, it’s about making sure your tools, worksite, health are protected. By following these simple steps, you can leave the job and enjoy the holidays with a peace of mind.

Supporting tradies since 1981:

For over 40 years, we have looked after thousands of tradies, builders, and business owners across Australia. At imar, we understand the unique risks tradies face, and we’re here to help you stay covered. Whether it’s protecting your tools, your income, or your reputation, our tailored insurance solutions are designed with tradies in mind. Find out more about imar.

Call 13 IMAR (13 46 27) to get a quote or submit an enquiry to find out how we can support you.

Related articles

August 20, 2025
Trades
Understanding Public Liability Insurance for Tradies: A Comprehensive Guide
As a tradie, you’re exposed to a variety of risks every day. Understanding these potential risks is crucial to ensure…
Read more
September 12, 2023
Trades
Safeguarding Landscapers, Lawn Mowers and Gardeners: The Benefits of Insurance
Maintaining beautiful landscapes and well-manicured lawns requires the skilful hands and dedicated efforts of landscapers and lawn mowers. Landscapers, Lawn…
Read more
July 24, 2023
Trades
Tradies Ultimate Guide To Public Liability Insurance
As a tradie, understanding the importance of public liability insurance is crucial to protect your business from potential loss. This…
Read more