Metal Theft Crackdown
Feb 1, 2012
The government is looking to introduce new legislation to crack down on metal theft. Under the new laws all cash transactions would be banned and there would be unlimited fines for people caught trading stolen metal. This could hopefully make it easier to track thieves as it would create a trail once they try to sell on the stolen metal. The new measures are set to be in place by April 2012.
The level of metal theft in the UK has risen sharply, it is estimated that 15,000 tonnes was stolen in the UK last year. This is due to the price traders will pay for the scrap, in August the price of copper reached an all-time high of £6,200 per tonne. Most metal traded in the UK will be shipped overseas to meet demands in emerging economies. Metal theft occurs mainly when weather conditions are relatively good, however companies should still be vigilant over the winter months. Thieves are on the look out for lead roof tiles and copper which can be found in phone wires, air-conditioning and heating units. However it’s not just copper and lead that are at risk; aluminium, brass and bronze are also tempting to thieves.
Impact on Insurance Premiums
It has been reported that metal thefts cost the UK economy an estimated £770 million each year. Insurance premiums have rocketed in response to this, especially for churches and other historic buildings.
Buildings which are particularly vulnerable are large stores and warehouses with air-conditioning and heating units as well as heritage sites, such as churches. One major problem resulting from the thefts is the cost of repairs. Listed buildings have strict regulations, which can make it extremely difficult and costly to replace stolen metal and comply with regulations.
It is important to carry out simple visual checks regularly. Stolen lead on roofs may not be obvious until a heavy downpour, when leaking could cause further damage. If lead has been stolen it's vital that an expert is called in to repair the damage.
Preventing Metal Theft
It is, as always, very important to keep your property secure. Carrying out a risk assessment will help to identify security measures that need to be enforced in order to prevent metal thieves.
Such measures may include:
- Identify exactly where any valuable metal is on your premises and make sure it is adequately protected. Install CCTV with an infra-red facility if possible.
- Don’t leave wheelie bins or ladders lying around the premises – as they will make it easier for a thief to gain access to the roof.
- Use floodlighting to light any risk areas. Make sure the lighting works as evenings draw in.
- Use anti-vandal paint above two metres high (and post a warning it is there).
- Set up regular checks and increase security activity around the premises.
- When making repairs or refurbishments to your properly do not store your goods outside.
