Free information evening on earthquake strengthening requirements
A "must-attend" free information evening in Rotorua this month aims to help CBD landlords and tenants understand
earthquake strengthening requirements. Aladina Harunani from apa Architect and Project Managers has arranged the evening
to help reduce the worry and uncertainty that is being felt in the city.
"All buildings in the central business district were provided with an initial assessment outlining their earthquake risk
by the District Council. Depending on the risk in the report landlords have two years or more to undertake a building
assessment," he said.
The Council sent letters to the owners of 1300 buildings last year asking them to obtain a structural engineering
assessment to determine the building risk in a substantial earthquake. Depending on the outcome of the assessment
buildings would need to be strengthened in the next five to 15 years.
"For many landlords and tenants earthquake strengthening is a big worry. They think it will cost a lot of money, but it
is not always the case," said Mr Harunani.
"It is important that we look at earthquake strengthening as part of the strategy to revitalise our CBD and bring new
businesses back into town, but the first step is to make sure people understand what is legally required and what the
options are."
"The information evening has been designed to provide all the information landlords and tenants need to know and what
steps they have to take," "We have arranged a panel of experts from Rotorua and around the country to share their
knowledge on the night. Engineers, architects and commercial property managers will present and answer questions people
may have," Topics to be covered include the Building Act requirements for earthquake prone buildings, what it means for
Rotorua, assessment procedures, timeframes and earthquake strengthening options.
"Earthquake strengthening buildings will protect people's assets in the long term. It will make it easier to attract
tenants and keep insurance costs down," said Mr Harunani.
The Earthquake Strengthening "What you need to know" evening is on Tuesday 17th June at 5.30pm at 1146 Eruera Street,
Rotorua. For more information or to RSVP email apa@ihug.co.nz
ENDS