Repetitive HVAC Theft, Cages, and Insurance Claims

[Jordan L.]

Hey BP,

  I have a rental property in South Carolina that has had the HVAC package unit stolen three times in the past 8 years, always when the property is vacant.  The property is an A- class property, but unfortunately is in a somewhat rural area.  I believe the next door neighbors are involved for several reasons, so I do foresee it happening again in the future.  The last theft was in 2017.  I had metal t-posts cemented into the ground around the new unit, but this was not enough to prevent another theft that I've just learned has occurred.

  My first concern:  Is it likely that my insurance carrier will drop me if I file a second claim?  I filed a claim for the theft in 2017.  I also have an unrelated claim on another property from 2020.  I use Nationwide.

 Second, does anyone use cages around their units?  Do they actually prevent theft if the individual has ample time to commit the offense...  like overnight or in a rural area?

I will likely install a security camera.  I am also considering using a livestock electric fence energizer for the cage to really make any attempt at theft more... interesting.

Thank you.

[Caroline Gerardo]

How can you make the metal cage look pretty? I'm coming out to see the house and it looks like prison? 

Can you remove the AC when property turns over?

Electric current will end up killing possums and dogs so no.

Knock on neighbor's door. Look and see what AC model they  have

Label yours with permanent hot pink spray paint

Concrete the unit into the ground -slab 5 inches deep and weld to it.

Lock up disconnect box so they get electrocuted when they do the steal 

look on craigs list for the HVAC guy selling them and call him to come to random addresses

Aim cameras where the truck parks and don't let them know you can record plates

Motion lights that make sound, there's some barking ones

Fence the yard, put a big dog there when it's vacant, thinking Doberman.

Put sign up about dog who bites.

Do you really know which neighbor did this?