How a Building Inspection Can Support Your EQC Claim in Christchurch
- Shane Browne
- Jul 30
- 2 min read
In a city like Christchurch, where earthquakes have left a lasting impact on thousands of homes, understanding the condition of your property is more important than ever. If you suspect your home has earthquake-related damage—or you’re dealing with the Earthquake Commission (EQC)—a professional building inspection can be a powerful tool to support your case.
Here’s how a building inspection can help with your EQC claim.
Identifying Earthquake Damage
Not all quake damage is obvious. Over time, minor cracks, structural shifts, or hidden moisture issues can develop into serious problems. A thorough, non-invasive inspection by an experienced building inspector can uncover:
Cracks in walls, ceilings, or foundations
Movement or unevenness in floors
Damage to cladding or framing
Signs of past repairs or substandard remediation
Water ingress caused by compromised roofing or drainage
At Manetain, we’ve inspected hundreds of homes across Christchurch and Canterbury since the quakes. We know what to look for—and what’s often missed.
Clear, Documented Evidence
EQC claims rely on clear, accurate evidence. Our building reports are detailed and easy to understand, with:
Descriptions of identified issues
Photos of visible damage
Commentary on potential causes
Recommendations for further investigation (if required)
This documentation helps strengthen your case with EQC, insurers, or potential buyers—whether you’re making a new claim, challenging an old one, or preparing to sell a post-quake property.
When Should You Get an Inspection?
A building inspection can be helpful at several stages of the EQC process:
When lodging a new claim for recent damage
When reviewing previous repairs or cash settlements
Before selling a property with past EQC claims
To support a dispute or reassessment
As part of your due diligence when buying a home with a claim history
Even if you’re unsure whether damage is quake-related, our team can help identify and document the issue clearly.
Local Knowledge Matters
Based in Christchurch and working throughout Canterbury, we understand the local context and the legacy of the 2010–2011 earthquakes. With over 25 years of experience and deep familiarity with EQC-related issues, we bring a level of insight that generic inspections often miss.
Book a Building Inspection with Manetain
If you’re preparing to file or review an EQC claim, a Manetain inspection can give you the clarity and documentation you need. We’re honest, experienced, and easy to deal with—and we’ll walk you through every step.
📞 027 345 3138