Rising Materials Thefts Affect Housing Affordability
Building web site thefts throughout Calgary have reached alarming ranges, with {industry} consultants warning these crimes straight improve prices for potential homebuyers. New evaluation reveals stolen supplies now add 3-7% to new dwelling costs in response to a number of {industry} sources.
Police Affirm Upward Development in Website Crimes
Legislation enforcement officers have documented a gentle rise in development web site thefts over current years. Reported incidents elevated from 255 instances in 2023 to 308 in 2024, with preliminary 2025 information displaying a regarding spike to 371 instances.
“This development considerably impacts each homebuilders and our broader neighborhood,” acknowledged Deputy Police Chief Cliff O’Brien throughout a current briefing. “We’re working carefully with {industry} companions to handle this subject.”
Excessive-Worth Targets Gasoline Value Will increase
Thieves predominantly goal copper wiring, lumber stacks, and premium home equipment, with single equipment thefts doubtlessly costing builders as much as $10,000 per incident in response to {industry} estimates.
“Theft has grow to be so frequent that we have virtually normalized it,” mentioned Michael Brown, president of a significant Calgary homebuilder. “When $10,000 in home equipment disappears in a single day, these prices inevitably get handed alongside to homebuyers.”
Brown famous thefts now happen with such regularity that almost all development companies expertise weekly losses, prompting requires higher industry-wide monitoring of incidents.
Building Business Ramps Up Safety
Industrial builders are implementing multi-layered safety measures in response to the theft wave. Enhanced protocols embrace perimeter fencing upgrades, 24-hour lighting methods, surveillance cameras, and personal safety patrols.
“Firms are investing considerably in theft prevention,” defined Invoice Black, president of the Calgary Building Affiliation. “These safety prices characterize troublesome monetary decisions – spending upfront to stop bigger losses down the road.”
Authorities encourage all development companies to report theft incidents, noting underreporting stays a big impediment to addressing the issue comprehensively.
