AVELEY has been named as the number one hot spot for building crime according to Builders United to Stop Theft WA.
The suburb had the highest number of building theft for May, with Brabham following closely behind, with doors, windows, hotplates and rangehoods frequently targeted by thieves.
Theft and illegal dumping cost the state’s four largest building companies $130,000 last month, up 38 per cent from April’s figures.
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READ NOWMeridian Services operation manager Darren Anstee said crimes were costing the building industry millions of dollars and affecting homeowners by creating building delays, increased insurance premiums and a drop in housing affordability.
However, Mr Anstee said illegal dumping was the biggest issue and was a “faceless crime”.
“The great Australian dream of owning your own home is getting pushed further and further away,” he said.
He said security at building sites was being ramped up and thieves would be caught, and encouraged people to report suspicious behaviour.
“You won’t know what appliances have tracking devices. At the end of the day you will be caught,” he said.
To report a building site crime call 1800 637 434 or visit Busted WA.