Another blow for homeowners

Thousands of home owners may have to spend as much as $100,000 to strengthen their homes against earthquakes.

Changes to building regulations have raised the minimum safety standards required in case of moderate earthquakes.

Property market analyst Kieran Trass said the change redefining what constitutes a moderate earthquake will have a significant impact, particularly on buildings built before 1965.

He estimated that in Wellington alone, the structures of at least a thousand buildings will need to be strengthened or the buildings demolished.

- NEWSTALK ZB