New support for earthquake-strengthening considered

Owners of multi-unit complexes where some people can't afford to pay their share of earthquake strengthening costs could be in line for Government assistance.

Building and Construction Minister Nick Smith revealed the possible support at an event in Wellington today, as new laws requiring the identification and upgrade of earthquake-prone buildings take effect this week.

The new regime divides the country into three earthquake categories.

In high risk areas including Wellington buildings must be assessed within five years and upgraded within 15 years.

Medium-risk locations such as Hamilton and Nelson must have buildings assessed within 10 years and upgraded within 25 years, while in low-risk areas like Auckland the timeframe is 15 and 35 years.

However, the timeframe for registered heritage buildings can be pushed out by a further 10 years, and low risk and low usage buildings can be exempted.

Schools, hospitals and emergency buildings like fire stations will need to be assessed and upgraded in half the time. Unreinforced masonry facades and parapets in high traffic areas will also need to be strengthened sooner.

A contestable assistance fund has been set up to help private owners of heritage buildings meet strengthening costs.

Today Smith said more assistance could be offered.

"I am also exploring options for Government assistance in multi-unit complexes where some parties may struggle to raise the finance for their share of strengthening costs.

"Officials are considering whether we could extend other Government housing guarantee products schemes to assist in these circumstances."

Smith said earthquakes were New Zealand's biggest natural hazard.

"These new laws involve an uncomfortable and inevitable trade-off between safety and cost but will save hundreds of lives in future quakes when fully implemented."