Counterfeit construction materials such as steel, cement, insulation and structural components pose an increasing safety and financial risk to construction projects across the globe. These fake products are often indistinguishable from genuine items, making visual inspection alone unreliable.
During a recent conference between the OECD and EUIPO, it was reported that counterfeit construction products cost legitimate businesses billions of euros annually. These fake goods often fail to meet standards and regulations, posing serious public safety risks.
The risks of fake construction materials include:
- Structural instability, leading to collapse or long-term degradation.
- Non-compliance with building regulations and safety standards.
- Increased fire risk from substandard insulation or cladding.
- Environmental harm due to poor-quality or unsustainable materials.
- Legal liability and reputational damage for builders and suppliers.
In high-stakes projects, from residential housing to critical infrastructure, ensuring the authenticity of every material used is essential for compliance and public safety.
