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CONSTRUCTION site theft has been revealed as a persistent and costly problem across Yorkshire and the Humber.
Over 5,200 incidents were reported between 2020 and 2025, according to new data obtained by security specialist Nothing But Padlocks.
The figures, gathered through a Freedom of Information request to police forces in Yorkshire and the Humber, highlight the ongoing impact of theft and burglary on the region’s construction industry.
Rich Quelch, managing director at Nothing But Padlocks, said: "Our research highlights just how often construction sites across Yorkshire are targeted by thieves, with tools, machinery and materials disappearing at a rate of more than two incidents a day.
"For contractors managing tight margins and rising material costs, each theft means delays, replacement costs and higher insurance premiums."
West Yorkshire was the worst affected area, accounting for more than half of all reported incidents with 2,670 cases.
Leeds topped the list with 1,131 incidents, followed by Bradford with 649 and Wakefield with 375.
South Yorkshire recorded 1,602 incidents, with Doncaster reporting the highest number at 516.
Humberside saw 687 incidents, while North Yorkshire reported the lowest figure at 306.
Mr Quelch said: "While it is encouraging to see recorded incidents falling since 2020, more than 700 crimes a year is still a sizeable and concerning problem, and the higher number of thefts in West Yorkshire shows the risk hasn’t gone away.
"Securing site cabins, containers and gates with high-security locks is one of the simplest ways to deter opportunistic thieves and protect valuable assets.
"Use sturdy fencing and regularly check gaps for damage to ensure there’s a secure perimeter, as thieves may scout building sites beforehand.
"Other visible safety measures, like CCTV, security lighting and warning signs, can also be effective deterrents to thieves."
So far this year, 406 incidents have already been recorded.