Tools disappeared, copper pipes dismantled, expensive construction machinery stolen – thefts on construction sites cost the German construction industry millions every year and bring construction projects to a standstill. But with the right security measures, most thefts can be prevented.
Organized gangs and metal thieves on the rise
Whether drilling machines, cement or entire heat pumps – everything that is not riveted and nailed is stolen on construction sites. As can be seen from the article by the German editorial network, around 80 percent of all construction companies have already been affected by theft. Eric Stange from the Builders’ Protection Association explains that tools, copper pipes, insulation materials and machines are particularly popular stolen goods because they are easy to transport and can be resold quickly. The experts estimate the total damage at over 80 million euros annually – and the trend is rising, as they say.
What used to be occasional thefts is increasingly becoming professional crime. Corinna Merzyn from the Association of Private Builders (VPB) warns of so-called “scrap thieves” who specifically target the metal value of objects and often act ruthlessly. They now remove permanently installed copper pipes or complete heating systems from uninhabited houses.
Particularly perfidious: Even after moving in, residents are not safe. Criminals are not afraid to dismantle heat pumps in front of the house or steal copper downpipes, the value of which has risen sharply. Theft and vandalism also cause many construction projects to fall behind schedule, which causes additional costs.
Proper security and modern monitoring provide effective protection
The basis of every construction site security is solid physical security. A sturdy construction fence with a height of at least 2.5 meters and additional mechanical security makes unauthorized access significantly more difficult. It is also important to use privacy screens – what is not seen arouses less desire from opportunist thieves.
Modern real-time video surveillance with a constantly manned control center has proven to be a particularly effective means. As the WatchDOME article shows, irregularities can be detected within seconds and intruders can be addressed directly via loudspeaker – which usually leads to the immediate termination of the break-in attempt. Expensive machines and valuable materials always belong in lockable containers anchored to the ground or should be removed from the construction site in the evening.
Create insurance protection and legal clarity
The question of liability in the case of construction site theft depends on the timing: before acceptance, the contractor is generally liable, after which the risk passes to the client. Construction insurance can cover the replacement of installed items that are stolen during construction. After you move in, household contents insurance takes effect in the event of break-in damage. As expert Kathrin Jarosch from the General Association of the German Insurance Industry (GDV) recommends, care should be taken to ensure appropriate insurance coverage when concluding the contract. Residential building insurance protects the entire building including permanently installed items and can also cover free-standing heat pumps. It is important to regularly document all tools and materials in order to keep track of damage.
D. Maier / editorial team finanzen.net