Media release

10 March 2011

Christchurch homes benefit from volunteer plumbers

More than 15 Christchurch families affected by the Christchurch earthquake have already benefited from a plumbing and drainlaying service launched in the wake of the disaster.

Over 60 plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers have volunteered their time and skills to repair water and sewerage systems in homes throughout the city as part of the letsfixit.org.nz initiative.

The website and registered trust connects plumbers and drainlayers willing to donate their time with those in Christchurch requiring assistance with their plumbing or drains to get them back to normality before the city council steps in.

The volunteer plumbers and drainlayers have undertaken more than 30 hours of repairs in affected homes.

The website has fielded multiple enquiries from Christchurch people, some of whom have been told they face a four-month wait for a plumber.

“Water and sewerage are two of the most urgent issues facing those affected by the earthquake in Christchurch,” said Jay Wester, Managing Director of heating and plumbing supplier LEAP, founder of the website and registered trust.

“Our aim is to get one toilet, one sink and one shower for each home. This initiative is all providing an interim fix while insurance claims and building plans are approved.”

Plumbers and drainlayers from as far afield as Australia and Norfolk Island have volunteered to donate their time to help out householders who need a fix in their bathroom or kitchen to get normal life back on track, said Mr Wester.
Sven Baker, CEO of strategic design company Designworks, which helped launch the website and bring the initiative to life, said: “After seeing the earthquake’s toll on Christchurch first hand, I saw this as a great way we could provide help to those most in need.”

Laura Campbell, who called on letsfixit.org.nz plumbers to carry out repairs to her Bromley home’s hot water cylinder, said:

“I would like to say a huge thank you to the letsfixit.org.nz plumbers who came out and fixed our hot water cylinder. We are so grateful that letsfixit.org.nz is helping out, and I want to sincerely thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all you are doing.”

Households in need of small repairs to their water and wastewater systems should register on the www.letsfixit.org.nz website. Plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers willing to volunteer can also register on the website.
Letsfixit.org.nz is a registered charitable trust and endorses licensed tradespeople only.

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