Fly-tipping remains a constant threat
Fly-tipping is costing landowners and landlords thousands of pounds in clean-up costs and
insurance claims, according to the British Security Industry Association (BSIA).
A recent surge in fly-tipping has been blamed on the rise of rogue disposal services that
undercut legitimate operators by sidestepping the £88.95 per tonne landfill tax.
The BSIA has warned that criminal gangs are collecting and dumping waste on an industrial scale. In some
cases dummy companies advertising cheap skip rentals have taken out short-term leases on
warehouses, filled them floor to ceiling with waste, and promptly vacated the premises –
leaving the landlord with an expensive mess too clean up.
Costs are sometimes borne by landlords where they’re not covered by insurance. The BSIA has warned that companies neglecting to protect their assets or that have already been victims of fly-tipping could see their insurance premiums rise.
Taxpayers often bear the costs too. According to the Local Government Association, the cost to taxpayers of clearing up fly-tipping has risen 13% to £57m in the past year.
“The police and other agencies seldom make arrests, prosecute individuals or confiscate vehicles largely due to already overstretched resources focused on serious crime and terrorist threats.”
So, what are the best ways to guard against fly-tipping?
- Keep the area visible
Most fly tipping is done during the night under the cover of
darkness. Perpetrators feel that they have less chance of being caught if they can’t be seen
which is partially true. Keeping the area visible is very important so consider cutting back
foliage or installing security lights so that the area can be seen. If a member of the
public sees a fly tip happening, then they will be more inclined to reach out and give
information about vehicles and ID.
- Consider patrols
If you have hot spot areas in your
local authority, then why not consider setting up officer patrols in the area to gather
evidence and deter perpetrators. We are able to offer fully trained officers who can patrol
‘Identified Hot Spot areas’ gathering footage and evidence to assist Local Authorities to
prosecute those who commit this type of crime. Many find that just having a presence in hot
spot areas reduces fly tips’
- Install CCTV
A CCTV system that can be remotely monitor an
area and record details to enable a prosecution. The system is cost effective as not only
does it reduce the need to spend on clear up, but it also self funds through the Fixed
Penalties issued to offenders.
- Think about prevention
Prevention is key when it comes to
fly tipping as if you can stop it from happening then it will save you a lot of time and
expensive resourcing. Obviously, it isn’t always simple but if you find that an area isn’t
too problematic then you could consider ‘Target Hardening’ as a prevention measure such as
installing gates or blocking areas to prevent the fly tippers from reaching it.
If you would like to discuss security measures against fly tipping, contact us for a free on obligation
quote.
