Although there is an ongoing effort to tackle metal theft, it still
remains a major risk for businesses across the UK. According to Zurich real
estate claims data, from 2004 to 2015, the total cost of medium and large
losses (valued at over £25,000) related to metal thefts rose by 2,500% in real
terms.
Are
you prone to metal thieves?
There are 3 main types of buildings that are being targeted most
frequently, with copper and lead as the targeted metals:
1) Historic buildings, especially churches
2) Out-of-town retail units
3) Vacant or isolated industrial units
What
are the implications?
The greatest losses from metal theft is often the trail of destruction
left behind by the thieves, this could have a direct effect on business or even
on your home. Rebuilding and clear up costs can often take several weeks,
whilst emergency repair costs can be expensive.
Case
Study (from Zurich)
Where: Warehouse premises
Declared Value: £5million
Claim: The premises were located in what would be described locally as a
good class of area, but had been vacant for a number of years. During that
time, the premises had been the subject of occasional minor acts of vandalism.
Eventually, however, travellers broke into the unit and proceeded to
strip the warehouse of its services, in the process causing significant damage
to the interior finishes and fittings and causing extensive asbestos
contamination.
Estimated reinstatement cost: in excess of £1millioin
How to
prevent metal thefts
Some ways to mitigate any potential metal thefts is to add security
measures. These could include:
1) Monitored CCTV
2) Intruder alarms – Roof alarms can be virtually invisible and large roof
areas can be protected cost effectively.
3) SmartWater – By applying this to external metal, the liquid carries a
unique forensic ‘code’ which is registered to an address or location.
4) Building inspections – Vacant properties should have regular and thorough
inspections
Another prevention method is to engage with your local community. By
joining a Neighbourhood Watch scheme the local neighbours can keep a watchful
eye out for any suspicious behaviour around your building.
If you would like more information on metal theft, please do not hesitate
to contact us on 01789 766 888