Government can’t ignore building crisis

Wayne Mapp - National Housing Spokesperson

The Government must hold a full inquiry into the leaky building crisis if it wants to restore faith in the country’s building industry, says National’s Housing spokesperson, Dr Wayne Mapp.

“This disaster could leave the country with a repair bill of hundreds of millions of dollars and will erode public confidence in the whole industry.

“I’m appalled that the Internal Affairs Minister has dismissed a full inquiry when homeowners want an assurance about the integrity and safety of building standards.

“Every section of the industry weathers blame in the report which shows just how widespread this problem is. How can a homeowner feel safe in their home if criticism is being levelled at the work of their property developer, their architect and their builder?

“A full inquiry, which would consider among other issues the compensation and health questions, is the only answer. It’s totally unacceptable that people have to live in rotting, unhealthy houses they don’t want, and can’t sell.

“The Government must act immediately and hold an full inquiry. After all, for most New Zealand homeowners, this is their biggest asset at stake,” says Dr Mapp.

© Scoop Media