Tools, trucks, insulation—even entire kitchens are stolen. With thieves targeting building sites, have you tried this approach alongside security guards and insurance?

In recent years, theft from New Zealand building sites has become all too familiar to builders. Even those who have not experienced it themselves have probably heard a story or two from others in the industry. Tools, water pipes, insulation, excavators—if it has value, thieves will want it, including things you might never imagine. Police data for 2019 shows that 77% of all crimes involving victims were property crimes. This is not limited to burglaries: unattended construction projects are a particular favourite with thieves.

                            Several excavators have been stolen in Manukau.
        Police say theft gangs target unattended construction sites in South Auckland, particularly at night.

From circular saws and nail guns to plaster, scaffolding and even entire kitchens stripped out, the BuiltIn Insurance website lists a wide range of building-site theft cases. The company insures more than 2000 builders. In an interview, a BuiltIn spokesperson said it receives at least one claim for vehicle or building-site theft every week.

Many builders feel utterly helpless when discussing site theft. Once thieves have targeted a site, they often return. Some builders are even afraid to speak out for fear of retaliation from criminal gangs. Many therefore insure their sites, while those with the means also install security systems and hire guards. But if a theft does occur, making an insurance claim and arranging replacements usually takes several days. Beyond the frustration, the resulting construction delays are a serious concern. Installing a security system usually costs more than NZ$5000, let alone providing 24-hour security guards. Not every project has the budget or resources. Are we really powerless against these criminal gangs?!

Recently, an earthworks company called Multi Civil gave this writer some inspiration. As a sizeable earthworks business, it owns more than 50 excavators and a fleet of trucks operating across different sites. To allocate, plan and manage resources effectively, it needs to know exactly where these vehicles are and how they are being used. Experienced builders know this is no easy task. The company had been exploring better ways to solve this problem until it discovered the Internet of Things, or IoT.

You may be wondering what this has to do with preventing theft. Quite a lot!

IoT technology can help you track the location and movement of equipment on your building site. With just a small sensor, you can keep an eye on everything from boxes and trailers to large hired machinery and construction equipment using your phone or tablet. The technology collects and analyses asset usage data to help you plan, manage and schedule inspections and repairs. It also collects GPS data and sends you an alert when someone moves an asset. IoT technology also allows you to:

• Manage assets anytime, anywhere through a web portal or app
• Track and assess asset use through detailed analytical reports
• Set and receive alerts to gain a deeper understanding of asset utilisation
• Plan workflows easily and automate management

And—here is the key point—

• Locate valuable assets on a map
• Monitor a designated area using geofencing and receive prompt notifications when assets leave it

This clever technology really does achieve two goals at once! The cost of using IoT also works out lower than installing a security system. As New Zealand’s largest telecommunications and data services company, Spark New Zealand can provide a complete solution with a service package tailored to your project’s needs. Its packages combine devices, connectivity, software and technical support, simplifying the process for you. Its skilled service team provides support throughout and answers your questions.

To better serve business customers, Spark New Zealand has Spark Business Hubs in communities around the country. The largest, Spark Auckland CBD Business Hub, offers services in Mandarin, Cantonese and English. If you are interested in IoT technology, scan the QR code to speak with a dedicated customer service representative.