Earthquake-prone buildings — Frequently asked questions for property owners

Will my property be affected?

If the property is a small residential building, such as a single or two-storey house, the new requirements do not apply to it.

Territorial authorities may assess whether properties in an apartment block, multi-storey residential building, non-residential building or structure would be subject to their earthquake-prone building policy.

These types of building built before 1935 could be earthquake-prone, but this may depend on the seismicity of the location. It is expected that up to 10 percent of buildings built between 1935 and 1976 could be earthquake-prone, depending on their location and on their structural characteristics. Buildings built after 1976 are unlikely to fall into the earthquake-prone category, but they are not excluded from possible assessment.

Each territorial authority will develop a policy reflecting the seismic, social and economic considerations in its area. If you have questions about territorial authority policies or individual properties, please contact your local territorial authority.

How is assessment determined and how much will it cost?

Different territorial authorities will adopt different approaches. Territorial authorities will need to assess buildings to check whether they are likely to be vulnerable in an earthquake.

Some parts of New Zealand are more seismically active than others. Factors such as local social and economic conditions, and community opinion need to be taken into account when territorial authorities determine the extent of the safety measures in their policy and how many years it will be before these take effect.

The assessment process will depend on the approach taken by each territorial authority. For example, a territorial authority may make an initial assessment of buildings in their district and then advise the owners of those that are possibly earthquake-prone. The costs of this initial assessment may be borne by the territorial authority, but it is up to them to decide as part of their policy.

Policies may require that, once a building is identified as earthquake-prone, territorial authorities contact owners to reduce or remove any danger to people’s safety. The timeframes for this would depend on the policies.

The costs of any further assessment and any work to reduce or remove the danger are likely to depend on the structural characteristics of the building, the degree of any deficiencies and the nature and the extent of any remedial work required.

Should I buy a building (or an apartment or commercial space in a building) that may be earthquake-prone?

As when buying any property, you should arrange for checks or surveys by a suitably qualified and independent person or organisation. This will help you understand the implications before proceeding with the purchase.

Are there any implications for finance/insurance?

Many of the risks inherent in a building constructed before the latest earthquake-prone building measures took effect are already likely to be factored in by financial and insurance providers. Good communication between the territorial authority, building owner and all parties involved is recommended where remedial or strengthening work is foreseen.