Pay Attention to the Rising Threat of Roof Access Burglaries
How Are Thieves Gaining Access?
Thieves often exploit roofs as a vulnerable entry point due to ease of access and the potential for uninterrupted activity. Here are some common tactics used:
1. Roof Breaches: Criminals access roofs from the outside, cutting through sheet metal or removing tiles to gain entry.
2. Hidden Entry Points: Some break into less-secured areas like bathrooms, then use these spaces to climb into the ceiling.
3. Alarm System Tampering: Once inside the ceiling, thieves follow alarm wiring to locate and disable the control panel and radio transmitter. This prevents signals from being sent to security companies, leaving properties vulnerable.
These incidents primarily occur at night, although industrial sites are also targeted during the day, especially over weekends. This tactic is typically followed when property or business owners are not home with the main goal being to disconnect the alarm, preventing signals.
Preventative Measures to Protect Your Property
To counteract this growing threat, property owners must adopt a multi-layered approach to security:
1. Ceiling Motion Sensors: Installing alarm passives inside the ceiling can detect movement, although small animals like mice and rats may need to be managed because they cause false alarms.
2. Exterior Motion Sensors: Deploy these in vulnerable outdoor areas like spots where intruders can access your roof from. Choosing the right type of passive is crucial to avoid false alarms when no one is on-site.
3. Dual Communication Systems: Use both a radio transmitter and GSM transmitter to ensure alarm signals are sent even if one system is disabled.
4. Security Cameras: Cameras alone aren’t preventative but can be highly effective when paired with monitoring systems like Spotbot, which sends alerts in real time.
5. Perimeter Protection: Installing electric fences adds an extra layer of deterrence, and tampering with the fence can trigger an alarm signal.
6. Routine Testing: Regularly test your alarm system and other security measures to ensure they’re functioning as intended.
Success Stories in Roof Security
Security measures have proven effective in numerous cases. For instance:
– Early Detection: Many burglars entering through ceilings have been detected by PIR sensors, causing them to flee before they could cause significant damage.
– Real-Time Response: In November 2024, a suspect on a commercial property’s roof was arrested thanks to a monitored camera system. The Spotbot sent an alert as soon as the intruder was detected, enabling security personnel to respond before any harm was done.
The Cost of Roof Burglaries
These incidents don’t just result in stolen goods—they often cause structural damage. Criminals may cut through roofs, displace tiles, and break ceiling boards, leaving property owners with costly repairs. Alarm system panels, if located inside cabinets, are also at risk of being damaged
Role in Securing Your Property
As a property owner, you’re the one who will know typical vulnerabilities. Walk through your premises with a critical eye, imagining how someone might attempt to break in. Address these weak points and continually re-evaluate your security measures.
If you’re unsure where to start, contact your private security company. In our case, we offer free advice and tailored solutions to meet your specific security needs. Don’t wait until it’s too late—take action today to protect your property against roof access burglaries.
