New Zealand / Regional

Repairs process to be reinstated

17:12 pm on 5 March 2014

Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee says the emergency repair process set up for quake repairs will be started up again to handle flood damage in Christchurch.

On Wednesday, thousands of customers remain without power in Christchurch and Banks Peninsula, as the severe weather flooded homes, and closes roads and schools.

Mr Brownlee said Fletcher Construction will lead the repairs with help from two other construction firms. Residents that need emergency repairs can call 0800 777 846.

The Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority staff have been out to check on the few remaining homeowners in the residential red zone, he said.

Homeowners affected by flood damage caused by the Canterbury storm should contact their insurers to have the damage assessed.

Insurance Council chief executive Tim Grafton said on Wednesday homeowners should seek advice from their insurer if they are uncertain about what to do.

Mr Grafton said people also need to let their insurer know if they have damage issues that poses a risk to their health and safety as a result of weather damage so repairs can be made.

He said if residents have to remove damaged goods from their homes or dispose of material, for instance, due to contamination that poses a risk to health, they should take photos to help inform the assessments.

Mr Grafton said after water levels drop, people should remove articles such as water-logged carpets or saturated bedding and air their homes to minimise mould from occurring.