Copper Theft on the Rise in St. Louis – Here’s How to Protect Your Property
In recent months, St. Louis and the surrounding counties have seen a sharp increase in copper theft, and it’s quickly becoming a major concern for homeowners, builders, and business owners. Thieves are targeting everything from HVAC condenser units to copper tubing and electrical wiring—often striking vacant or newly constructed homes and commercial properties.
These criminals are stripping tens of thousands of dollars worth of copper from buildings, leaving behind massive repair bills, disrupted projects, and in some cases, hazardous conditions. It’s not just an inconvenience—it’s a serious financial hit to property owners who are left footing the bill.
Why Copper?
Copper has long been a target for theft because of its high resale value. It’s used widely in HVAC systems, plumbing, and electrical wiring. Scrap yards and recycling centers pay top dollar for it, making it an attractive score for thieves. Unfortunately, many of these buyers aren’t asking the right questions—or any questions—about where the copper is coming from.
The Real Cost
Theft of copper materials not only costs money in lost materials, but also in damage to the structure and systems of a property. HVAC units are being ripped apart, electric systems are gutted, and new construction sites are delayed and derailed. Insurance often doesn’t cover the full cost of these losses, especially for vacant homes or construction projects.
It’s Time for Accountability
There needs to be a stronger crackdown on copper theft—and that starts with holding the buyers accountable. Scrap yards and recycling centers must be required to verify and report sellers, and law enforcement needs to be supported with better tools to investigate and prosecute these crimes. Without consequences for those creating the demand, the thefts will continue.
How St. Louis Alarm Company Can Help
At St. Louis Alarm Company, we offer advanced security solutions specifically designed to deter and detect theft at both residential and commercial properties. Whether it’s a vacant home, a construction site, or a fully operational business, we have the tools to help protect your property.
Our solutions include:
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Video Alarm Verification Systems to catch thieves in real time and notify authorities immediately.
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Motion-Activated Cameras and perimeter alerts for construction sites and HVAC units.
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24/7 Professional Monitoring to give you peace of mind, day or night.
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Smart sensors and alerts for detecting tampering or unauthorized access.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Copper theft is only going to get worse if action isn’t taken. Take proactive steps now to secure your property and reduce the risk of becoming a target.
Contact St. Louis Alarm Company today to schedule a free security assessment and learn more about how we can help you protect what matters most.
