The North Texas Roofing Contractors Association (NTRCA), a regional association for residential and commercial roofing contractors who maintain the highest industry standards, announced that it is offering a $5,000 reward through Crime Stoppers, in response to the sharply increasing theft problems plaguing the roofing and other related industries.

FORT WORTH, Texas - The North Texas Roofing Contractors Association (NTRCA), a regional association for residential and commercial roofing contractors who maintain the highest industry standards, announced that it is offering a $5,000 reward through Crime Stoppers, in response to the sharply increasing theft problems plaguing the roofing and other related industries.

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 thus far, roofing theft losses have surpassed $2 million. Roofing materials and equipment are being stolen from warehouses, supply trucks and job sites, impacting roofing manufacturers, suppliers and contractors. The theft problem, according to NTRCA board president Tim Rainey, 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.

“Based on our members’ reports, we believe the crime ring is becoming bigger, stronger and more sophisticated,” Rainey said. “Consumers are the ones who ultimately suffer. 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 home owners.”

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.