Site Security on a Self-Build in Ireland — Hedges, Hoardings, CCTV, and Insurance
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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).
TL;DR
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.
Theft from self-build sites in Ireland is rising — copper, tools, and machinery are the main targets. Lock everything away nightly.
Most insurers require the site to be: fenced 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 over €200k in stored materials.
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.
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.
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.