Copper Wiring Theft, Restoration & Deterrence

What's the deal with copper theft?

Copper theft, or attempted copper theft, is subject to being on the rise at any time in which commodity prices for scrap copper are also on the rise. Likewise, in tough economic times, the scrapping of copper appears to alter the reward vs. risk ratio in the criminal mind just enough to drag out the loathsome thieves and make it a 'worth-while' endeavor for them.  

Being that scrap copper pricing is approximately $3.18 per pound at the time of writing this article, you can see that a long run of larger copper wire, and in some cases even small copper wiring, will yield quite a hefty return on investment when you consider that the thieves stand to yield thousands of dollars potentially for 15-30 minutes worth of covert work.

To make matters more troubling, the simple act of attempting to steal the copper is just as devastating as actual theft. Many times the would-be thieves 'cut' or damage the wiring beyond that of proper, legal repair and then are spooked off by neighbors, passerby's or the occasional security guard. 

The restoration process

In general, the typical restoration process involves taking these steps and often, as rapidly as possible in order to restore power promptly. 

1. Thoroughly review and document the extent of damage or loss with descriptive reporting as well as photo/ video media. 
2. Determine if the client needs to pause and await a budgetary quote or if work can progress swiftly on a routine Time and Materials basis.
3. Determine related safety concerns and proper plan of restorative action. 
4. Procure and expedite all restoration materials to the loss location. 
5. Procuring and expediting permitting as required.
6. Demo, remove and repair all aspects of the electrical system that require proper repair.
7. Store damaged sections of wiring for potential insurance investigation if loss/ damage is part of a claim.  
8. Furnish and install new materials including conduit, fittings, and wire as needed. 
9. (If electrical service related) - Terminate all wiring per utility company standards. 
10. (If electrical service related) - Client contacts power provider to request turn-on
11. (If electrical service related) - Designated person(s) remains onsite awaiting arrival and connection by utility company and test operations upon completion.

Copper theft deterrents to consider

1. Make sure the area is well lit. Install additional lighting as needed.  The more visible the vandals are at night, the less likely they are to attempt theft. 
2. Install warning signs.  You can also elect to label conduits, panels and place wall placards that indicate that 'Aluminum wiring has been installed' - which, since aluminum wiring is less lucrative and not worth near as much, may actually keep the vandals from stopping at your property and cause them to move on looking for a better target. 
3. Install fencing or caging around the areas that will make it far more difficult for thieves to access the electrical system. 
4. Make sure roof access panels and ladders are locked at all times and implement a proper lock-up program onsite. 
5. Actual or faux security cameras may act as a deterrent since most thieves don't want their identity being known. 
6. Know your neighbors and discuss this topic with them. Make sure they are aware to keep an eye on your property and you, theirs. 
7. Monitor your fire systems.  If you receive a notification or trouble alarm on your fire or security system of 'no power', this could mean thieves are onsite working on stealing your wiring. 
8. For more prone areas of crime you may consider budgeting for night time security personnel to keep a watchful eye on your systems and property. 
9. Watch out for Holiday weekends and Holidays in general.  For whatever reason, we've noticed that over the years, many copper thefts occur on weekends and especially over extended Holiday related weekends.  You may want to step up security measures during those times. 

This article has been shared by Direct Service, Construction and Design to specifically accommodate our intended clientele.  The intent of sharing this information is to better inform the public of these general topics, expand knowledge and safety for all and provide crucial information in regard to their MEP and building systems and/or assets. It is NOT our recommendation that any article recommendations or how-to scenarios be attempted by anyone other than a qualified or competent person.