Protect your church from metal thieves
Date: 15 November 2007
Every week we are receiving claims for theft of external metals from churches. Thefts can cost anything from a few hundred pounds to 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 parapets away to get at lead flashings.
Whilst thieves will only obtain a relatively small amount for the scrap metal they take, they leave behind a trail of damage that is both a major cost and inconvenience.
So what can you do about it?
Make friends with your neighbours – they’re the very best people to keep an eye out. To help them, ensure that any overgrown trees or vegetation are cut down to improve visibility.
Consider using external signage asking neighbours to alert the police if they see suspicious activity such as our A4 lead theft poster and our A3 lead theft poster.
Consider prevention measures including anti-climb paint, CCTV, intruder alarms or security lighting if your church is particularly at risk (subject to any planning requirements). Anti-climb paint should only be used over 2 metres in height and warning notices should be displayed.
Restrict vehicle access and remove ladders – make the thieves’ job harder.
If you do sustain a loss, it’s important you report this to our claims advisers as soon as possible on 01452 334 954.
Where possible, replace metals with less expensive materials to discourage thieves from striking again.