Thieves are breaking into empty for-sale and for-rent homes in Saanich to steal copper water supply tubing and electrical wires.
Three incidents have been reported to Saanich police since June 5 where homes have been entered and the copper tubes that lead from the hot water tank have been stolen.
In all three cases, the thefts have resulted in flood damage to the homes.
Incidents occurred in three different parts of Saanich: the 3600-block of Ophir St. in the Shelbourne valley, the 1800-block of Taylor Rd. in the Saanich panhandle south of Hillside Shopping Centre, and the 3900-block of Telegraph Bay Rd. in Cadboro Bay.
“We suspect the same person or persons is responsible, given the MO is distinct,” said Sgt. Dean Jantzen.
Items that are being stolen do not amount to much in terms of value, as they are short pieces of low-quality copper.
Jantzen advised landlords and property owners to perform regular checks on vacant properties to ensure they haven’t been targeted. People should double-check security, such as locks and motion detector lights.
kslavin@saanichnews.com