Church metal theft

Whilst world demand for metal remains strong, the value of scrap metal will continue to attract thieves to churches. We’re always sad to see the damage metal thieves cause and are actively looking for new ways to deter them.

We have also produced metal theft guidance notes, which give detailed advice on due diligence and additional security measures that are suitable in a church setting.

The types of metal that are stolen from churches include lead, copper, and stainless steel roof coverings. Other areas, such as roof flashings, copper lightning conductors, and lead rainwater pipes, have also been targeted.

• Restrict vehicle access to the building using gates, fences and bollards.
• Work with your local police force.
• Ask your community to be vigilant in reporting any suspicious behaviour.
• Deter thieves using security lights, CCTV, and by cutting back any trees/plants which could hide criminal activity.
• Take extra care while any building works are in progress – scaffolding, building equipment, and ladders left around the church will make life easier for thieves.
• Use a forensic security marking system to mark your metal and display the signs as a visual deterrent.
• Invest in a roof alarm; they can be extremely effective. (You can read our roof alarm case study to see how one church’s roof alarm successfully prevented metal theft on three separate occasions.)

Our risk management specialists have put together a metal theft checklist for churches and PCCs to follow. It gives a list of precautions churches can take to reduce the likelihood of metal theft in your area.

Church insurance customers are required to have some security measures in place and may receive a discount or additional cover for implementing others.

Security marking

Applying SmartWater® (or an alternative forensic marking system approved by us) to external metal is a condition of your insurance. Please make sure you have applied the SmartWater® solution and registered with SmartWater®, and you have displayed the signs warning that metal has been protected. For more information, visit our SmartWater® page.

The application and registration of SmartWater (or an alternative approved by us), along with the display of prominent signage, is a condition of your policy. If you do not meet this policy condition, you will not be covered for theft or attempted theft of metal or the damage caused by metal theft.

Install an electronic roof security system

Additional actions, such as installing an electronic roof security system or CCTV, will further reduce the risk of a theft occurring. Over 500 churches now have roof alarms to help protect external metal.

If you install an Ecclesiastical-approved roof alarm, we may also be able to increase your theft of metal cover. To find out more, visit our roof alarms page or speak with a member of the church team on 0345 777 3322.

Scaffolding and building works

When building works are carried out, extra equipment such as ladders and scaffolding may be present at the church. Items such as these can make it easier for criminals to access metal, and we therefore ask churches to be extra vigilant at this time. Please call us on 0345 777 3322 and we will advise on the best course of action to protect your church.