Trent Cotney, Partner, Adams and Reese LLP
Every day, contractors face challenges – from supply chain issues and rising prices to staffing shortages and extreme weather. Sadly, jobsite theft is also a considerable concern, especially in Florida.
When materials and equipment disappear from sites, contractors lose money. However, they also lose time because new materials must be ordered and schedules are delayed. In addition, if they submit insurance claims for the materials, their insurance premiums increase.
Unprotected jobsites provide easy access to would-be thieves. Construction equipment, tools, lumber, shingles, windows and even appliances are seemingly up for grabs overnight and on weekends when few workers are around.
Nationwide, material and equipment theft can add up to millions of dollars in losses, with California, Florida and Texas being the hardest hit. Although site theft has been an issue for years, the instances appear to be on the rise lately, perhaps because material prices have increased dramatically.
Given the loss of time and money resulting from material theft, it is critical that builders and contractors find ways to protect their equipment. Here are some strategies to consider:
Conduct an inventory: Make sure you have a master list of all your equipment. This process will help you keep track of where items are and it will simplify filing police reports and insurance claims if anything is stolen.
Mark your materials: Take the time to put identifying information on all your tools, machinery and other equipment. If possible, add a colorful company logo on larger items. For company property, add your tax ID number to the materials; for personal items, use your driver’s license number. This tactic makes it easier for law enforcement to recover the stolen items, but it also may deter thieves from taking them in the first place. Use RFID tags and other types of geospatial locators to help identify the location of stolen materials or equipment.
Track your shipments: Keep detailed lists of deliveries to jobsites. While marking those items may not be practical, you should have a complete record of what should be onsite. This approach will help if you see that items are missing. In addition, avoid having any deliveries arrive just before or during weekends, holidays or any other days when the site is quiet. It is better to receive those deliveries when many workers are present and close to when the items will be used. Less excess material on a jobsite is always preferred.
Secure the jobsite: Depending on where your project is located, find ways to make the site more secure. Lock items behind fences if possible. Install security cameras if feasible. If you are building in a residential area, coordinate with the neighborhood watch or the homeowner’s association to monitor the construction sites, especially at night. You can also try storing materials
in hard-to-access places, such as on the top floor of a building under construction or within a large piece of equipment.
Preventing jobsite theft also requires coordination between roofing contractors and distributors to work together to catch thieves attempting to resell or use stolen equipment.
Stolen equipment can hurt your bottom line, but it can cause other problems as well. If hard-to-get items go missing, you must order more, meaning your project will take longer. This scheduling issue will have a domino effect, impacting other projects you are committed to. Late completion can also frustrate clients who are eager to move into their new homes or offices. That
frustration can damage your reputation, which can do more harm to your company in the years ahead.
The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation. Trent Cotney is a Partner and Construction Practice Group Leader at the law firm of Adams and Reese LLP and serves as FRSA General Counsel.
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