theft of metal
Theft of metal on the rise
Driven by demand in China, the international price of copper and lead has broken all records over recent months. Prices for zinc, nickel and aluminium are also at their highest since 1996. This has led to an increase in the theft of copper and other metals in all areas of the country.
Nearly every day we receive claims for theft of external metals from churches. Thefts can cost anything from a few hundred pounds to tens of thousands. Theft of lead, copper and other metals – from roofs, guttering and lightning conductors – is prompted by the rising price of these materials.
It’s not just the cost of replacing the materials that is the problem, thieves have also torn holes in roofs causing them to leak and ripped stonework away from pinnacles and towers.
The thieves get a fraction of the cost for scrap and they’re causing irreparable damage to some of the nation’s most beautiful and sacred buildings.
Be vigilant!
Parishes need to be vigilant in order to reduce the risk of metal thefts from church roofs and other parts of buildings for which they’re responsible. Areas where work is underway need to be kept secure and ladders removed overnight. Security lighting can also minimise the risk. Find out what you can do to protect your church in our dedicated theft of metal guidance notes.
Any suspicious activity should be reported to the police. You should also inform other churches in your area to put them on their guard. If you are part of a National Churchwatch scheme, you can use this to pass on information.
