The Real Cost of a Break-In for Canadian Businesses in 2025 (And How to Prevent It)
Break-ins are rising again across Canada. As of early 2024, police-reported data and industry reports continue to show upward trends in commercial crime.
If you’re a small business owner, you’ve likely put off installing security because of the cost or confusion around what’s actually needed. This guide cuts through the noise with real Canadian stats and practical advice to help you take action.
Break-ins are rising again across Canada. In 2022 alone, there were over 133,000 police-reported break-and-enter incidents, a 4% increase from 2021. And while exact figures for commercial break-ins are scarce, businesses remain a major target.
If you’re a small business owner, you’ve likely put off installing security because of the cost or confusion around what’s actually needed. This guide cuts through the noise with real Canadian stats and practical advice to help you take action.
The Reality: Commercial Crime in Canada Is Growing
- 133,000 B&E incidents in 2022 (+4% YoY)
- In Toronto alone, commercial break-ins rose from 27% of all B&Es in 2014 to 42% by 2021
- Most targeted sectors: Retail, Manufacturing, Construction, Hospitality, Healthcare, Finance, and Telecom
Which Provinces Face the Highest Risk? According to the 2023 Crime Severity Index:
- Saskatchewan: 146.8
- Manitoba: 126.9
- Alberta: 101.4
- British Columbia: 92.9
For contrast:
- Ontario: 60.9
- Quebec: 62.2 (Lowest among major provinces)
The Western provinces consistently show higher crime rates, especially property crime. Businesses in these areas are at elevated risk.
The Financial Toll on Business Owners According to CFIB (2024):
- Median crime-related cost for small businesses: $5,000 over 3 years
- That’s ~$1,667/year on theft, vandalism, and repairs
- Example: Vehicle theft costs construction companies an average of $25,900 per incident
These costs don’t include downtime, lost customers, or insurance premium hikes.
Do Security Systems Actually Work? Yes. And the numbers back it up:
- Global studies: Businesses with alarms have 60% lower burglary risk
- 67% of Canadian small businesses have now added security measures (cameras, alarms, window bars)
- Monitored systems = faster response = fewer losses
Real-world example: A Calgary retailer avoided a $20,000 loss after an attempted break-in was stopped by a monitored alarm with video alerts.
Cost Breakdown: What You Might Pay Here’s what business owners in Canada can expect:
Alarm Systems:
- Equipment: $300–$700
- Monitoring (optional): $20–$50/month
- Installation: ~$100–$200
CCTV Systems:
- Basic 2–4 camera setup: $700–$1,500+
- Full HD systems w/ storage: $2,000+
- Installation: $300–800
Pro tip: Start small. Get alarms first, then add cameras. Most systems are modular. (meaning you don’t have to buy the full package upfront)
To sum it up
- Break-ins are an increasing concern. Businesses are high-value targets.
- Western provinces see the highest commercial crime rates.
- Most small businesses face a $5,000+ cost over 3 years from crime.
- Security systems work, especially when monitored.
If you’ve been putting off your business security setup, now is the time. We’ll help you assess your space, recommend the right system, and make it affordable.
Book a free business security consultation with Alarm Guard today.
