6. NICKY WAGNER (National) Link to this
to the Minister for Building and Construction
What reports has he received on the interest in the Government’s Financial Assistance Package from owners of leaky homes?
Hon MAURICE WILLIAMSON (Minister for Building and Construction) Link to this
Since the financial assistance package became law just last Friday, the Department of Building and Housing has recorded a high level of inquiries from owners of leaky homes who are interested in taking up the package. Not only have we had a considerable number of inquiries from people who already have existing claims, but also we received 43 calls on Friday from brand new claimants. The department’s leaky home package website, www.leakyhomes.govt.nz, has so far had a total of 1,210 hits, resulting in the download of 892 financial assistance information packs. Just yesterday the website received 422 hits, and 345 financial assistance packs were downloaded. This is a positive sign that the Government’s package is being viewed by the public in a very positive way.
Hon MAURICE WILLIAMSON Link to this
First, the package will suit both apartment owners and homeowners who want to avoid lengthy and costly legal battles in the courts and want to move on with their lives. Second, it will help owners of leaky homes get their homes fixed a lot faster. The financial assistance package is but one more option for owners of leaky homes. It will be in addition to the current disputes process. Homeowners who choose to take the financial assistance package will still have the right to pursue other liable parties such as builders, developers, and the manufacturers of defective products. This package sees a contribution of 25 percent from the Government and 25 percent from the local authority, with the remaining 50 percent being funded by the homeowner.