Remain vigilant when contractors are on premises

The case of an intruder who was recently arrested at a property on the East Rand after being mistaken for a contract worker and allowed access to the property, highlighted the importance of remaining vigilant when contractors are working at your premises, warned security company Fidelity ADT.

Linda Goodenough, Community Development Manager for Fidelity ADT, said the attempted robbery was opportunistic.

“The intruder walked into the property when the owner’s father arrived. He then asked to use the bathroom. Thinking he was a contract worker, the owner’s father let him in but kept an eye on the bathroom.

“The intruder then went into the bedroom. When questioned on what he was doing there, he didn’t respond but walked into the kitchen saying he was waiting for his colleagues to arrive. The owner’s father then called his daughter who contacted the security company. The contract workers denied knowing the intruder and he was arrested,” she said.

She offered the following safety tips:

• Vet your contractors thoroughly. Remember the risk is not only from opportunistic crime but potentially from the contractor themselves. A reputable contractor will usually have references and we recommend you contact these prior to any contracts being signed.

• Remain particularly security conscious while contractors are on your property or within the complex by keeping all access doors closed, particularly when your perimeter security is being worked on.

• When work starts, lock away your valuables, especially those that are small enough to fit into a pocket or backpack if contractors are in your home. Make sure all keys are put out of sight. Ensure that your contractor understands your concerns regarding the safety and the security of your property. You may even consider giving the contractor a panic button.

• Discuss bathroom usage with your contractor ahead of work commencing. The contractor may need to supply a portable toilet for his staff.

• Inform your security company when contractors are on site. They can do extra patrols and keep an eye on the property during the work when the perimeter may be compromised.

• Hiring a casual guard may be a good option if you have extended renovations being done to keep an eye on the property while service providers move in and out. Often gates are left open as contractors load and offload items, leaving the premises vulnerable. Having a security presence at the property is a great deterrent for opportunistic criminals and sends a message to workers on the property that security is a priority.