Calgary Police Warn of Escalating Construction Site Thefts
Calgary is experiencing a significant rise in construction site thefts, particularly in newly developed neighborhoods. This concerning trend has persisted for two to three years but has escalated recently.
Rising Concerns for Homebuilders
Mike Brown, CEO of Trico Homes, highlighted the theft of various materials at construction sites. He noted that thieves are stealing everything from house wraps and lumber to valuable components like copper wiring and appliances. These thefts not only delay construction but can also add three to five percent in unexpected costs for homeowners.
The Challenges of Security
Despite attempts to hire nighttime security, maintaining constant surveillance at multiple sites is impractical. To combat theft, Trico Homes has started using Apple AirTags to track stolen materials. Brown pointed out that stolen items often appear in other neighborhoods, specifically Killarney, demonstrating a resale market for construction materials.
The Impact on Commercial Builders
Construction site theft isn’t limited to residential projects. Bill Black, CEO of the Calgary Construction Association, recognized that this issue has historical roots but has intensified as Calgary’s urban development increases. He attributes the rise in thefts partly to economic challenges and growing demand for affordable solutions.
Factors Contributing to Theft
- Growth of construction in Calgary.
- Increased financial pressures on individuals.
- Delays in inspections allowing materials to remain unprotected.
With copper wire often left unsecure, its theft necessitates that construction teams start from scratch once again, hampering project timelines and increasing costs.
Law Enforcement’s Response
The Calgary Police Service has deemed construction theft a noteworthy issue, particularly in new build communities. Although data on specific theft incidents wasn’t available at the time, Deputy Chief Cliff O’Brien confirmed that it significantly impacts both builders and the community.
O’Brien urges residents to report any thefts, as many are hesitant to do so, believing it may not lead to action. Recent government measures in Alberta aim to address copper wire thefts through updated regulations requiring scrap metal dealers to document transaction details.
New Legislative Measures
The new laws, set to take effect in fall 2025, mandate that metal purchasers document essential information such as type, value, and pricing of the metal. These regulations will create a database accessible to law enforcement. This is designed to bridge enforcement gaps and improve accountability for offenders.
As Calgary continues to grow, community members and law enforcement must work together to combat the rise in construction thefts and protect vital resources in the industry.
