The Council has set aside $1 million per year over the next six years in its 2010 / 11 Annual Plan to cover these costs.
Homeowners who want to know whether they qualify for the package should visit the Department of Building and Housing website at www.leakyhomes.govt.nz.
Christchurch is one of the least affected of New Zealand’s major cities, however there are further complications for Christchurch residents who also have earthquake damage to their home.
Discovering a leaky home following earthquake damage
Many homes in Christchurch have been badly damaged following the earthquakes. Some people may discover their home has weathertight issues after removing wall boards to assess earthquake damage.
If your home has been built in the last 10 years, you may be eligible to make a claim for any non earthquake damage caused by leaks, dampness or mould.
Tips for maintaining a weathertight home
The Council advises homeowners to be active in maintaining their properties to prevent potential future damage from leaks, dampness and mould.
Below are some key guidelines to assist homeowners with property maintenance:
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All home exteriors should be regularly maintained (ideally every three to six months)
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This includes washing exterior surfaces, inspecting surfaces and joints for gaps or damage, and repairing or replacing items when necessary
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Exterior maintenance is a year-round on-going process, however tasks such as clearing spouting, repainting and replacing sealants are best undertaken in the drier months
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Monolithic clad homes, with proprietary cladding systems, should be inspected regularly and recoated every seven to ten years, depending on the system. This maintenance is usually part of the manufacturers warranty conditions
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Solid plaster (stucco) homes should also be repainted every seven years and washed regularly
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Using a certified tradesman for these jobs may be a good investment to prevent the risk of damage from an unsuccessful DIY job
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If you think your home has a leak that needs repair work, make sure you shop around and get a number of quotes from various quality certified builders.
For more information around weathertightness and further tips and guidelines for protecting your property against leaks and water damage visit the Department of Building and Housing website.
