Give free loans to leaky home victims, says MP

Victims of leaky homes should be offered interest-free loans to start repairs, United Future MP Paul Adams says.


During a debate on finance, Mr Adams urged the Government to give more help to people lumbered with homes that are rotting.

It has been estimated the cost of leaky home repair bills could top $1 billion.

He said that while the process of determining fault and liability was necessary, owners should be given interest-free loans in the meantime.

People living in leaky homes needed direct help, and quickly.

"It's one thing for us to sit here and make laws, rules and regulations, but what happens when those go horribly wrong, as has happened with the leaking homes situation?" said Mr Adams.

"I have heard stories of floors collapsing, children falling through rotting floors, decks collapsing and all of this while people have to live in these homes.

"This is a national disaster that requires Government funding right now.

The Government has set up the Weathertight Homes Resolution Service to settle disputes following the discovery of a rash of poorly built, leaking apartments and houses.

Building rules have also been tightened to ensure quality construction and reduce the risk of defects.

- NZPA