Scrap metal thieves target state houses

The rapidly rising value of scrap metal is thought to be behind a surge of thefts nationwide, including many from empty state houses.

The Government-owned properties are being stripped of stoves, cabling and even kitchen sinks by thieves wanting to make money from the scrap metal, the Dominion Post reported.

Housing New Zealand has set up a six-person team to tackle the problem, which is thought to be costing the agency tens of thousands of dollars.

Police say the increase in value of scrap metal -- now $5.50 for a kilogram of low-grade copper compared with between $2.50 and $3 a year ago -- has led to a surge in thefts around the country.

One scrap dealer says thieves continue to steal because they know dodgy operators who buy the metal without the required checks.

Housing NZ national property improvement manager Garry Boon said thieves were taking sinks, bench tops, shower trays, stoves, electric cabling, taps, spouting, downpipes and brass fittings such as valves.

"Thieves are known to cut open hot-water cylinders and remove copper lining, which in turn causes water damage to properties," he said.

"Pipes under floorboards have also been taken."

Most thefts are from empty houses.

Mr Boon could not put a figure on the cost of the problem, but it is believed to be in the tens of thousands of dollars.

Inspector Morris Cheer said police had also noted an increase in the number of thefts of scrap metal, including empty beer kegs, brass plaques and power cables.

Scrap-metal dealers are required to obtain photo identification from any person from whom they buy scrap metal, and to record a description of the scrap metal acquired.

Copper, or items containing copper, valued at more than $40 have to be tagged and retained in their original form by the scrap-metal dealer for 14 days from the date of purchase.

Companies caught breaking the rules can be fined up to $10,000.