Bold as Brass

Increased demand for metal from the Far East, together with speculative investment in base metals by financial investors, has led to record international lead and copper prices of others such as aluminium, nickel and zinc following suit.  These increased prices have resulted in more incidents of metal theft in the UK.

Spurred by potentially large rewards, thieves are becoming increasingly bold and their targets more unusual.  Many of the thefts are carried out in broad daylight and with theives posing as innocent workmen.  Lead, copper and stainless steel roof coverings, iron gates, bronze statues, lead and copper rainwater pipes and even brass door knobs have all been stolen.

Wherever metals are present, there is an increased risk of theft.  Even a small loss can have a significant impact on your business as it takes time to repair damage and source replacement stock or equipment.  Further, a business insurance policy does not usually cover standard theft of either property in the open or of parts of the building.

As long as the value of scrap metal is inflated, metal theft will continue to be a high risk.  We therefore recommend that you re-evaluate your premises' existing security arrangements.

If you would like further advice on this subject, please contact us.

 

There are a number of measures that you can take to deter metal theives, including:

  • Remove any easy access to buildings, roofs e.g. water butts, waste bins and trees.  Cut back tall trees and vegetation that could provide a screen for criminal activities.  Remember to get necessary approval for any tree cutting before work starts.
  • Store ladders and any easy means of transporting stolen goods (e.g. wheelie bins and wheelbarrows) in a secure place.
  • Check roofs regularly.  Theft of roofing materials can let rainwater into the building, causing further damage.
  • Improve the physical security of your premises.  Be sure to agree in advance any changes to your intruder alarm protection with your insurer.
  • If you have stocks of materials, review the existing security arrangements.  Many businesses take measure to protect their computer equipment against theft but overlook protection for metals in the workshop or stockyard.
  • Review perimeter security.  Keep any gates locked or restrict vehicular access to the site.  Consider retractable bollards over the gated entrance for use out of working hours.
  • Consider installing security lighting around the building and site, particularly at roof level if there is a metal roof covering.
  • Consider installing CCTV and display prominent warning notices around the site.

 

 

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