Builth Wells Crime Rate

Builth Wells maintains a safety score of 80/100, making it one of the very safest areas in the UK. Despite a 7.1% increase in overall crime rates year-on-year, its crime rate of 80.5 per 1,000 remains 11.5% below the UK average. The most notable trend is the 66.7% surge in 'Other crime,' which warrants closer scrutiny. This data highlights a balance between local safety and emerging challenges, particularly in unclassified incidents.

Builth Wells is a historic market town in Powys, characterised by a mix of rural tranquility and small-scale commercial activity. Its low population density and limited urban infrastructure likely contribute to lower property crime rates compared to larger towns. However, the presence of local amenities and occasional tourism may drive specific crime types, such as anti-social behaviour and violence, which are influenced by community dynamics and seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers.

The most striking finding in Builth Wells is the 37% elevation in criminal damage and arson compared to the UK average. This may be linked to the town's rural character, where isolated properties and limited surveillance create opportunities for such crimes. Violence and sexual offences, though 15% above the UK average, remain relatively low given the area's population size. Anti-social behaviour's 41% deficit from the UK average suggests strong community cohesion or effective local policing. The sharp rise in 'Other crime' (+66.7% YoY) indicates a need for further investigation into unclassified incidents, possibly linked to transient populations or unmonitored areas.

Crime in Builth Wells has increased by 7.1% year-on-year, driven by a sharp 66.7% rise in 'Other crime.' The monthly trend shows a peak in July 2025 (18.9 per 1,000/month) followed by a decline, likely influenced by seasonal factors such as summer tourism and extended daylight hours. However, the overall rate remains 11.5% below the UK average. 'Other crime' has surged dramatically, while anti-social behaviour and public order incidents have decreased slightly, indicating a combination of local dynamics and broader trends.

How To Keep Safe in Builth Wells

For residents, securing vehicles in well-lit areas is crucial, as vehicle crime peaks at night. Given the 37% above-average rate for criminal damage and arson, installing motion-sensor lighting and securing outbuildings with reinforced locks is advisable. For families, ensuring that anti-social behaviour remains low requires community engagement, such as participating in local initiatives that promote public spaces. Residents should also be mindful of 'Other crime' trends, which have risen sharply, and report any unclassified incidents promptly.

Crime in Builth Wells follows distinct patterns tied to daily rhythms. Theft peaks in the afternoon (38% of incidents), likely linked to retail activity and public spaces. Vehicle crime spikes at night (19% of incidents), possibly due to isolated parking spots or reduced visibility. Burglary is most common in the evening (20%) and night (27%), reflecting opportunistic activity when homes are unoccupied. 'Other crime' dominates overnight (46% of incidents), suggesting unaccounted factors such as transient populations or unmonitored areas.

Llandrindod Wells has a crime rate 143% higher than Builth Wells, at 195.4 per 1,000. This stark contrast may be attributed to Llandrindod Wells's larger population and proximity to urban centres, which can increase exposure to crime. Builth Wells's lower population density and rural character likely contribute to its significantly safer profile.

For Builth Wells residents concerned about criminal damage and arson, scOS offers proactive boundary detection and autonomous deterrence. The system's AI identifies threats at the property perimeter, distinguishing between harmless activity and potential damage. Ethernet-connected cameras ensure uninterrupted monitoring, while automated lights and speakers deter intruders. Given Builth Wells's 37% elevation in this crime type, scOS provides a tailored solution to protect homes and outbuildings from deliberate harm.