Building companies targeted by metal thieves

A rise in the number of construction firms in the UK claiming on their insurance policies after having building materials stolen from them, it has been claimed.

Doug Barnett, customer risk manager Doug Barnett, said the firm has seen claims arising from such crimes increase by ten per cent over the last 12 months, as well as a 7.5 per cent rise in the average claim.

He also said the rise in incidents of theft was likely to go on as the currently economic instability continues, reports Building.

"Many business owners regularly worry about the fear of being robbed for their stock or having vital equipment stolen which could put them out of business for a period of time and therefore affect not only their own livelihoods, but the lives of all their employees," Mr Barnett commented.

In related news, rising cases of metal theft from churches has caused a dispute between English Heritage and religious authorities about the most effective way of preserving the buildings, reports the Daily Telegraph.