An Adelaide man has been arrested after flagging down police for a lift while carrying stolen goods in his backpack.

Police were called to a property on Marmora Terrace, Osborne, after the occupant heard noises outside at about 2:00am (ACDT).

When officers arrived they found the copper pipes connected to the hot water system had been stolen, but there was no-one in sight.

While patrolling the area to find the suspect, police were flagged down by a man asking for a lift.

They stopped and spoke with the man and as he put his backpack down, saw copper piping inside.

The 65-year-old man from Largs North was charged with theft and unlawfully on premises.

He was bailed to appear at Port Adelaide Magistrates Court on January 5.