Gate theft has become a genuine problem across the UK. We've had several customers contact us after waking up to find their gates completely gone - posts, hinges, the lot.

In our twenty years selling gates, we've seen this issue increase significantly. What used to be occasional vandalism has turned into organised theft targeting valuable metal.

Why thieves target gates

Scrap metal prices have made gates increasingly attractive to thieves. A decent pair of wrought iron gates can be worth several hundred pounds at the right scrap yard. Gates are also relatively isolated compared to other valuable items around your property. They're often in quiet side passages or front gardens where thieves can work undisturbed, especially at night.

We've noticed thieves have become more organised too. Rather than opportunistic vandalism, many gate thefts now involve proper tools and transport.

                                                                 

Start with proper foundations

Steel posts set in concrete require serious equipment and time to remove. Most thieves will move on to easier targets rather than spending an hour with a pneumatic drill.

Security hinges make a difference

Standard hinges with removable pins are an invitation to thieves. We've seen gates stolen simply by lifting them off their hinges in under thirty seconds.

Security hinges with non-removable pins or welded construction eliminate this vulnerability. Some designs require the gate to be opened before removal, which is impossible when locked.

The upgrade cost is minimal compared to replacing stolen gates, and proper security hinges should last as long as the gates themselves.

Visible deterrents work

Most gate thieves want quick, quiet jobs. Anything that makes the theft more difficult or noisy will often send them elsewhere.

Motion-activated lighting is particularly effective. We recommend LED floods that cover the gate area completely. Battery-powered options work well where mains power isn't available.

CCTV cameras, even dummy ones, can deter opportunistic theft. Real cameras with cloud storage are obviously better, but visible security measures often provide most of the deterrent value.

What we tell our customers

The goal isn't to create an impregnable fortress. You just need better security than the property down the road.

Multiple security layers work better than relying on any single measure. Proper foundations, security hinges, good lighting, and visible deterrents together create a formidable barrier.

We've found that customers who invest in proper security from installation rarely experience problems. The additional cost is minimal compared to the hassle and expense of dealing with theft.

Community awareness helps

Established residential areas with active neighbours tend to experience fewer gate thefts. Thieves prefer locations where they can work undisturbed.

If you notice suspicious activity around gates in your area, it's worth reporting. Many thefts involve reconnaissance visits before the actual crime.

Local community groups and neighbourhood watch schemes can be effective at sharing information about suspicious activity.

                                                                                                   

Realistic expectations

No security system is completely theft-proof, but proper precautions dramatically reduce your risk. Most gate thieves are opportunistic and will move on when faced with proper security measures.

The investment in good security typically pays for itself through insurance savings and peace of mind, aside from actually preventing theft.

We've installed hundreds of gates over the years, and customers who follow these recommendations rarely contact us about theft problems.

Professional installation with proper security features from the start is always more cost-effective than trying to retrofit security after problems occur.

Looking for secure gate options for your property? Browse our gates collection or contact us for advice on security features and proper installation.