Copper Water Pipes Stolen
Copper Theft
During our years as a maintenance plumber, there has always been the occasional home that has the copper pipes stolen, but we are seeing an increase this month, particularly prevalent in vacant homes throughout Logan & Beenleigh.
Why is copper stolen?
Copper is one of Australia’s highest value metals & with many illegitimate scrap metal companies offering cash with no receipt, it seems simple to get cash for metal.
Scrap metal companies are suppose to take the name, registration number & a copy of the drivers licence of the person selling the copper, along with refusing to buy clean shiny copper, but it seems that many are not doing this, therefore thieves are getting away with this felony.
There are 2 types of copper - Clean Copper (Type 1) & Dirty Copper (Type 2).
Type 1, Clean copper fetches approximately $5 - $6 per kg & is probably the highest value scrap at the current time.
Type 2, Dirty copper is more difficult to sell & doesn’t fetch a good price.
It is the illegitimate scrap companies who are fueling the theft of copper by paying cash with no docket.
It’s not just your water pipes being stolen, but power, telephone & internet cables. The pipes are often snapped or ripped out leaving a trail of destruction for expensive replacements.
Removing the copper from a home is dangerous & there is a high risk of electrocution.
Replacing the copper water lines can cost $800 - $5000 compared to the potential scrap price of $300.
Steeling Copper is a criminal offence in Australia - Criminal Code 1899 - Stealing.
The offender can be charged & end up with a criminal record, fined $1000 & potential imprisonment for 10 years.
If you have a vacant home in your street, keep an eye out for strange vehicles in the driveway, or suspicious behavior & contact Police Link on 131 444.
Strategies for preventing theft
Proudly providing a quality plumbing service to our local community since 1983. Your maintenance plumber in Beenleigh, Logan City, Brisbane & the Gold Coast.
For all emergency plumbing, contact our emergency number on 0447 671 095.
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