Media Release 12 August 2015

Meeting in Christchurch on post-Earthquake Land Issues - tomorrow

For many homeowners in Canterbury the misery of resolving issues with the damage caused not only to their homes but their land continues.

Resolving the insurance and land issues post the Canterbury Earthquake is complicated because of the damage done and because each group, homeowners, insurers, local and central government, have taken varying positions.

Meeting organiser, Melanie Tobeck says homeowners appear to be the most disadvantaged.

“They are individuals who hold agreements with their private insurers and EQC but having those policies honoured for many is very difficult and complex. There are a number of reasons for this, one relates to accessing information that homeowners feel they can trust and can be confident is independent,” she says.

She adds that there have been many good initiatives volunteers in the community and various government funded organisations have put forward and many homeowners have gained an improved level of knowledge to help them navigate the issues and get the right outcome based on their insurance policy. But one of the most complex topics remains untouched and has been little talked about, that is damage to land.”

Dr Duncan Webb of Lane Neave and Peter Woods of Anthony Harper, along with a land specific professionals and insurance advisors want to finally get this discussion out in the open for the Canterbury homeowner. They are starting with a public meeting on Thursday 13th August 2015, from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at the Transitional Cathedral titled Know the Land You Have. Dr Webb and Mr Woods’ only goal is to help homeowners know what questions they need to ask and of whom and to help homeowners begin to formulate an understanding of the interplay with EQC, CERA and the private insurer.

In addition, Mr Woods will touch on some of the recent court rulings and what they potentially mean for homeowners, with particular attention to professional and contingency fees. Peter will provide a high level of overview of what some of the “wins” for homeowners really mean.

If you wish to find out more about this forum you will find it online by searching Eventbrite Know the Land You Have, you can also find it on the Facebook page Canterbury Claimants. Information from previous meetings can be found by searching SlideShare Canterbury Claimants. You do not need to register for this meeting, but in doing so you will more easily find out about future events.

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