The Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment has released a 2013 briefing to the Minister of Housing Hon Dr Nick Smith written by their Chief Engineer.
The Minister asked about a reduced standard of repair for older properties “particularly in the context of Housing New Zealand [properties]”, however the Ministry’s response is still illuminating:
- There is no reference to the Earthquake Commission Act 1993 and the standard of repair required by the Act.
- Although a building may have been damaged, the Ministry provided a list of scenarios where “no repair is required”.
- Minimising cost and avoiding obtaining engineering advice for individual properties were primary considerations of the Ministry.
- The Minister was concerned with avoiding “excessive” money and time spent on earthquake recovery.
The full document is embedded below.