Addressing the escalating problem of construction site theft

The persistent rise in theft from building sites has presented the construction sector with increasing difficulty in recent years, raising questions as to why, who’s responsible, and what to do about it.

Earlier this year, our UK Construction Crime Index revealed 7 in 10 construction workers witness theft as regularly as once a year, causing delays to at least one-third of projects.

The increasing cost of building materials is the primary factor contributing to the growing sophistication of theft from construction sites. The demand for commodities like copper, steel, and timber has increased due to global economic trends and supply chain disruptions, making them desirable targets for thieves looking to make quick cash. Our report shows copper and cable top the tables as the most frequently targeted goods – delaying critical infrastructure, such as railways.

Technological advancements have also empowered thieves with new tools and tactics to carry out their illicit activities. Modern construction sites are equipped with sophisticated equipment and machinery, which, if left unsecured, become vulnerable to theft. High-value items such as excavators, generators, and power tools are increasingly targeted. Thieves are leveraging drones and GPS tracking devices to scout sites and identify valuable assets, enabling more strategic and coordinated theft operations.

A concerning trend is the rising level of organisation among criminals involved in construction site theft. Instead of opportunistic individuals, organised crime networks are orchestrating targeted heists on a larger scale. Last year, insiders orchestrated the largest copper heist in history, stealing 1 million euros worth of copper from Germany's Aurubis. Additionally, our own Construction Crime Index revealed that 1 in 3 construction workers, who are directly exposed to such crimes, believe that criminal tactics are becoming more sophisticated.

These networks possess the resources and capabilities to plan and execute complex theft operations, employing diversion tactics and insider information. This shift towards organised crime has heightened the challenge of combating construction site theft for law enforcement and security teams.

To counter these evolving threats, construction companies are adopting new security measures and technologies. A popular approach is the implementation of surveillance systems equipped with video analytics and remote monitoring capabilities. These systems detect suspicious behaviour in real-time and promptly alert security personnel, facilitating swift responses to potential threats.

Moreover, many construction firms are investing in physical barriers such as fencing, gates, and lighting to deter unauthorised access to their sites. Some are deploying security guards and K-9 units to patrol premises and conduct regular inspections. Additionally, marking and tracking high-value items with unique identifiers like RFID tags or serial numbers can aid in tracing stolen goods and enhancing recovery efforts.

Prevention is paramount in controlling this issue. To mitigate the risks associated with construction site theft, firms should adopt comprehensive security strategies that integrate technology, physical barriers, and vigilant monitoring.

Unfortunately, workers bear the brunt of poor security, with 1 in 4 surveyed in our report saying they’ve been left out of pocket after having to replace stolen tools. Despite this, 30% say security is seen as a “low priority” on sites they work on.

Rather than viewing security as an additional cost, it should be perceived as the best insurance policy to safeguard assets and project integrity.

In summary, combating theft from construction sites necessitates a multidimensional strategy that includes preventative measures, teamwork, and creative solutions. Construction companies can successfully safeguard their assets and maintain the integrity of their projects in the face of this growing problem by staying ahead of the curve and adjusting to emerging threats.