The North Texas Roofing Contractors Association (NTRCA), a regional association for residential and commercial roofing contractors, distributors, manufacturers and associates who maintain the highest industry standards, announced that it has joined forces with the Lumberman’s Association of Texas and Louisiana to create a task force with a mission to put a stop to the growing theft problem in Texas.

FORT WORTH, Texas - The North Texas Roofing Contractors Association (NTRCA), a regional association for residential and commercial roofing contractors, distributors, manufacturers and associates who maintain the highest industry standards, announced that it has joined forces with the Lumberman’s Association of Texas and Louisiana to create a task force with a mission to put a stop to the growing theft problem in Texas.  Roofing materials, lumber and equipment are being stolen from warehouses, supply trucks and job sites at alarming rates. Members of the task force include leaders of NTRCA and LAT, contractors, distributors, state organizations, local police departments, manufacturers, Crime Stoppers and insurance and security experts.

NTRCA is offering a $5,000 reward through Crime Stoppers, in response to the sharply increasing theft problems. The reward, funded by NTRCA and Crime Stoppers, is offered to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest of someone involved in the theft of roofing supplies and/or equipment. Those with information are asked to call Crime Stoppers at 214-373-TIPS (8477).

NTRCA estimates that in 2009, roofing theft losses in North Texas were well over $3 million. Roofing materials and equipment are being stolen from warehouses, supply trucks and job sites, impacting roofing manufacturers, suppliers, contractors and, ultimately, the end user.

“Looking at national statistics, roofing material thefts are the worst in Texas and other states where there is no licensing of roofers,” said Tim Rainey, board president of NTRCA.

“Consumers are the ones who ultimately suffer,” Rainey said. “They are unknowingly supporting this crime ring, and as theft losses in the roofing industry increase, roofing costs are being driven up for businesses and homeowners.”

The theft problem, according to NTRCA, became more significant in mid-2008 with the increased fuel prices, but the size and frequency of the thefts have sharply increased since the beginning of 2009. And, despite media attention and increased security measures, the criminals are getting bolder and more sophisticated, Rainey said.

NTRCA recommends that consumers ask potential roofing contractors questions about where their shingles were purchased, especially if the bid is significantly lower than other roofing bids.