The Timaru District Council says it will strongly defend itself against claims the council was liable in a leaky buildings case involving hundreds of thousands of dollars. 

Three owners in the Bayswater complex, which overlooks Caroline Bay, are suing the developers and the Timaru District Council. Three of seven units in the complex, which were built about 10 years ago, have suffered extensive water damage in the roof and floor areas. 

The council's chief executive, Warwick Isaacs, says he hopes the matter can be settled out of court. However, he says the council will defend its position strongly if the case does go to court.