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Source: ONE News -
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Some of the worst affected homeowners in the Canterbury quake
zone say they have been left in the dark about what assistance they
can get if their land is unsuitable for re-building.
The Earthquake Commission has admitted it would have been helpful
to give homeowners more information earlier about what help was
available. It said dealing with the nearly 40,000 claims lodged had
been its main priority up until now.
While houses are covered partly by the Earthquake Commission and then by insurance companies, the Earthquake Commission covers all damaged land.
The Commission says that while it will take time to assess which sections of land are unsuitable for re-building, people unable to re-build on their average town section should not lose out on compensation.
"In most cases, the value that's available under the Earthquake Commission Act is pretty close to the value of the section itself," says Earthquake Commission Insurance Manager Lance Dixon.
Today Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee re-assured residents that they will be treated fairly.
"Its not the government's intention to stand by and watch people dispossessed," Brownlee said.
