Site Security on a Self-Build in Ireland — Hedges, Hoardings, CCTV, and Insurance
On this page
Hire a 2.4 m hoarding and a CCTV pole for €200–€400/month. Site insurance won't pay out if the site is unsecured.
Site security on a self-build in Ireland is a real cost — typically €200–€400/month for a 2.4 m hoarding and a CCTV pole. Theft from self-build sites is rising: copper, tools, and machinery are the main targets. Site insurance won't pay out if the site is unsecured. Most insurers require: hoarding or fencing to 1.8 m minimum, all materials stored in a locked container, machinery immobilised when not in use, and CCTV or a guard for sites with over €200k in stored materials. Get a written security plan from your insurer before construction starts. Most thefts happen in months 3–6 (when the structure is up but the fit-out hasn't started) and months 9–12 (when appliances and copper are on site for second fix).
When this matters most
You're at the pre-construction phase and need to plan site security before materials arrive.
When this doesn't apply
Your build is finished and the site is landscaped.
Sources
Health and Safety Authority, Construction site security guidance. https://www.hsa.ie/
Frequently asked questions
How much does site security cost for a self-build in Ireland?
€200–€400/month for a 2.4 m hoarding and a CCTV pole. Locked container hire for materials: €100–€200/month. Most sites need both for 9–15 months.
What is stolen most from self-build sites in Ireland?
Copper (cables, pipes), tools, machinery, and appliances during second fix. Months 3–6 (pre-fit-out) and months 9–12 (second fix) are the highest-risk windows.
Will my site insurance cover theft?
Only if the site meets the insurer's security requirements: hoarding or fencing to 1.8 m, locked storage for materials, machinery immobilised, and CCTV. Read the policy before you start.
When this matters most
You're at the pre-construction phase and need to plan site security before materials arrive.
When this doesn't apply
Your build is finished and the site is landscaped.
Where to go next
Next decision
The next step in your build sequence.
- Foul Drainage Connection in Ireland — Mains Sewer, Treatment System, or Septic →
- Is My Site Buildable in Ireland? The Five Checks That Decide It →
- Land Registry Check in Ireland — Folio, Map, and What to Look For Before You Buy →
- On-Site Electricity for a Self-Build in Ireland — Temporary Connection, Generator, or Solar →
- Ribbon Development in Ireland — The Planning Policy That Refuses Houses Along Rural Roads →
- Site Access in Ireland — Road Entrances, Sightlines, and the Road Opening Licence →
- Site Office and Welfare for a Self-Build — What You Need by Law (SHWW 2013) →
- Site Survey in Ireland — Topographical, Measured, and Boundary Surveys →
Branch into
Adjacent decisions at the same stage.
- Flood Risk Maps in Ireland — How to Check opw.ie Before You Buy a Site →
- Percolation Tests in Ireland — EPA T-values, What They Mean, and What Costs When You Fail →
- Rural Housing Policy in Ireland 2026 — Local-Needs Tests and How Counties Vary →
- Septic Tank vs Mains Sewer in Ireland — When Each Applies and What It Costs →
- Well Yield Tests in Ireland — How to Confirm a Rural Water Supply Before You Buy →
Watch out for
Common mistakes, hidden costs, gotchas.
- Percolation Tests in Ireland — EPA T-values, What They Mean, and What Costs When You Fail →
- Septic Tank vs Mains Sewer in Ireland — When Each Applies and What It Costs →
- Site Assessment Cost in Ireland — Soil Test, Percolation Test, Water Test, and What to Order Together →
- Site Purchase Costs in Ireland — Stamp Duty, Legal Fees, and What Adds Up →
- Irish Soil Classification — Class 1 to Class 5+ and What Each One Costs You in Foundation →
Compare with
Alternative approaches worth knowing.