Backflow assemblies made out of brass are targets for theft and scrap metal. While the scrap metal value for the brass and copper contained within these assemblies is only about $250, brazen thieves are making short work of stealing as many as they can, sometimes twice from the same properties.

Backflow preventer assemblies are easily recognized, and usually placed above ground along the street frontage for most commercial properties. The thieves drive up, sometimes dressed in orange vests to look like city employees, take a saw and cut the valve off at the pipes. The whole process can take less than two minutes.

These thefts have occurred in broad daylight, and have happened at prominent and visible locations. Replacing these backflows can cost as much as $3,000 to $6,000. Their removal by thieves will also interrupt water service for your property and tenants as well as the possible water damage created from the water running uncontrolled through the open connection.

How to protect your backflow prevention assemblies

Although there is no perfect solution to eliminate the theft of the backflow assemblies, and, in fact, those who have taken the measures outlined below have still experienced the loss of the valves, the following actions are being recommended by law enforcement, landscapers and plumbers:

* Enclose your backflow assemblies with a protective cage.

* Secure it with a non-tamperproof lock (a breakaway lock is easily opened and not recommended). In case of emergency, your maintenance crew should have a copy of the lock's key.

* The cage should be securely mounted to the ground.

* Have the cage spot-welded to the bolts to prevent its removal.

* Stamp, label or identify the metal with a recognizable code or name of your own.

* Paint the unit(s) with brightly colored paint.

* Post a visible warning sign with something to the effect of: "Theft and damage to this unit will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

* Camouflage the unit by planting screening landscape a foot or so from the backflow. This will make the unit less visible while still allowing for maintenance access if needed.

Contact Spectrum Backflow Testing for a free estimate and theft prevention solutions for your backflow prevention assemblies on your property.