Preventing construction site theft

How to secure your construction site to prevent theft and damage.

Key crime prevention tips

To prevent theft from a construction site:

  • secure the site
  • secure tools and equipment.

Tools and equipment theft checklist

Secure the site

To secure the construction site:

  • lock buildings and storage containers
  • install closed circuit television (CCTV)
  • install audible alarms
  • install good lighting
  • employ a guard service. 

Secure tools and equipment

To secure tools and equipment:

  • Engrave or paint all tools and equipment with a driver's licence number or another unique mark. 
  • Photograph and/or record model and serial numbers.
  • Lock up all tools and equipment overnight. 
  • Disable equipment at night by removing batteries. 
  • Keep records of the movement of materials to and from the site. 
  • Secure equipment in storage containers. Within the container, secure equipment with heavy duty padlocks or chains. 

Other things you can do

Ask neighbours to report suspicious activity to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

What to do if your worksite has been burgled

If your worksite has been burgled:

  • Do not confront the thief. Get out or find a safe place. 
  • Do not touch anything. 
  • Call your insurance company. 

Report it

Resources

Download a printable checklist:

Construction site thefts checklist – print only version
PDF 83.84 KB
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Updated