Theft that has become routine
In February 2026, CTV News reported Calgary police warnings about thieves targeting new-build construction sites, with one homebuilder saying the activity "has become normalized" and costs potentially passing to home buyers. In British Columbia, Business in Vancouver reported that thieves increasingly target tools, appliances and flooring in organised, targeted operations.
Security as a condition of financing
The same BC reporting notes that on-site security is required for multi-family builders to obtain insurance and lending approval, and that typical deductibles run $2,500 to $5,000 per project. Prevention protects schedules as well as budgets: every claim risks higher premiums.
Protecting the earliest phase
The riskiest period is often before permanent power and fencing. Solar surveillance towers can be on site within hours, watched by operators who issue live voice warnings and dispatch officers when an intrusion is verified.
Scaling with the build
As the site grows, add officers at the gate, mobile patrols and fire watch where systems are impaired. With wired pole cameras, some of the site's cameras can stay on as the finished building's system.