If your building has been damaged, it is important that you reach out to your insurer as soon as possible, there are likely to be delays as insurance companies deal with many claims. Make sure to take photos of any damage if it is safe to do so.
EQC provides some cover for emergency events on defined areas of residential land, where there's a current private insurance policy for the home, which includes fire insurance (most do). EQC have a range of resources available on their website.
The New Zealand Claims Resolution Service (NZCRS) is a free service that provides residential homeowners with advice, so they can achieve timely, fair, and enduring resolution of their residential insurance claims resulting from natural disasters.
Homeowners should talk to their insurer in the first instance and contact NZCRS if they have concerns about their claim or are unsure about the process.
We understand that owners may need to carry out urgent repairs during an emergency period, it is important to ensure any new or replacement building work must comply with the New Zealand Building Code.
Some work may or may not require a buidling consent, it is important that you are aware of your responsibilities. A certificate of acceptance may be an option if work is urgently required for the purpose of saving or protecting life or health or preventing serious damage to property.
Further guidance on repair work is avaliable on the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employments website.
Not all building work requires a building consent. Please refer to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) guidance regarding building work that does not require a building consent.
Although the work may not require a building consent, your insurance company may require you to obtain a building consent. Seek their guidance prior to undertaking any building work.
If your property has a placard (Red or Yellow), please visit our Building Placards page on how to have this revised.
Some repair work may require a building consent, such as structural repairs, addition of insulation or replacement of internal membrane.
If you have any questions on whether your building is dangerous or insanitary, or you need further information about what work requires building consent please contact your Tasman District Council– (03) 543 8400.
Damage caused may generally be beyond the capability of the individual householder or small businessperson to clear up and repair on their own. Do not attempt work that is beyond your capabilities - call in professionals where required.
Your insurance company may appoint a builder to help you. Alternatively, you may be asked to contact several builders yourself and obtain competitive quotes for work required and seek approval from the insurance company before building work can begin. If you are not insured, then you will need to choose a builder yourself.
Ensure you select a reputable builder, such as a licensed building practitioner, a member of Master Builders or Certified Builders or other specialist trade bodies. Beware of builders touting door-to-door. Do not pay cash in advance and get signed receipts for all work done.
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