Metal thefts have sky-rocketed this year, with many blaming looming tariffs for the crimes.
Earlier this month, over $1 million worth of HVAC systems from homes and businesses were stolen in New Mexico. Las Cruces Police department have suggested that the systems are being dismantled to sell copper and aluminum pieces to recycling centers or scrap yards. Copper has been rising in demand as the metal is used in renewable energy and data centers. The going rate for copper reached an all-time high at $5.60 in July.
The thefts copper and other metals have reached such heights that some lawmakers have proposed bills that would make it harder to sell the materials to scrap dealers. According to Denverite, the city passed regulations for scrap materials. Meanwhile, Minnesota now requires copper sellers to prove that they are licensed recyclers to buyers. Since the law passed, copper thefts have dropped by 50 percent, MPR News reports.
Unless widespread laws and regulations are ordered, it is expected that copper thefts will only increase. The Trump Administration recently announced 50 percent tariffs on copper, severely impacting electrical wiring components and appliances starting on Aug. 1. According to Reuters, the U.S. imported 541,600 metric tons of refined copper just between March and May – equaling 60 percent of imports over 2024. At least four cargo ships of the metal have set sail to the U.S. in hopes to beat the Aug. 1 deadline.
The facilities management industry is already struggling under the weight of impending tariffs. Nearly every component of an HVAC system is be hit with tariffs. Copper and aluminum are essential pieces in refrigerant coils and lines. It is predicted that prices for these units could increase by at least 40 percent in the next year, UniColorado reports.
Facilities management is already a tough enough industry to navigate. Tariffs or unavailable materials will put managers under additional pressure as they try to diversify their providers. It is recommended by supply chain professionals for consumers and manufacturers to put expenditures on hold until they can determine the true cost to procure, manufacture, assemble and supply goods.
With the metals being more coveted, it is likely that thievery will increase. It is strongly suggested that managers invest in access control systems to protect their buildings, so if a crime were to take place they could be alerted.
Mackenna Moralez is the associate editor of the facilities market and the host of the Facilities in Focus podcast.
