Insurance blow for Timaru family 

A Timaru family have been ordered out of their home of 19 years after it was condemned because it is cracking up.

The family have learned their insurance policy does not cover the damage and they say that is a warning to others.

Joe Marsters says despite the obvious cracks throughout the house, he thought they were ok.

"I told my wife that we're right, we're covered by insurance and it'll be no problem," says Joe.

But it was a  problem because their policy only covers sudden, accidental damage.

"That was a blow...you pay insurance all your life and all of a sudden somebody says look we can't do this for you, it's not within the policy," Joe says.

No room has been spared from the damage and outside the south wall is on the move and could collapse.

The major cracking began four months ago. Joe says it started at 20 millimetres and now has grown to 60mm.

The Marsters say the house has always had small cracks but they have got far bigger over the past year.

Their insurance company says it feels for the family but an independent engineer has confirmed that the damage occurred over time which means they are not covered.

But there is some good news with locals rallying to help.

Fundraiser Helen Rietveld says they have been offered help from builders, an electrician, a construction company and a haulage company.

"Just can't believe that so many people are helping out and it's great yeah and it's very much appreciated...it's wonderful," Lynette Marsters says.

For now though their house is condemned and anyone entering without permission can face a fine of $200,000.