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Fletcher Construction chosen to manage repair of 50,000 homes in Canterbury
The Earthquake Commission (EQC) has chosen Fletcher Construction to run EQC's Canterbury earthquake project management office.
As project manager, Fletcher Construction will be required to manage the repair of approximately 50,000 properties moderately or seriously damaged in the Canterbury earthquake.
The first repairs are expected to be underway in two weeks. The initial priority will be making properties weathertight while a detailed repair programme is agreed.
EQC's chief executive, Ian Simpson, says Fletcher Construction will deliver a community-based approach to the task.
"They will set up sites on streets throughout the region, from which the many sub-contractors needed to undertake the repairs will be based.
"This will give the people of Canterbury a visible presence on the ground and it will mean that small local businesses and tradespeople will be able to bid for and win work to repair properties.
Mark Binns, Executive Chairman of Fletcher Construction and Chief Executive of Fletcher Building's Infrastructure Division, said that he was delighted EQC had the confidence to entrust such a significant and nationally important task to Fletcher Construction.
"The clear intention is that most of the resourcing for the management and the undertaking of the repair work will come from the Canterbury area.
"The company will assess and prioritise areas to make accurate predictions on the numbers of tradespeople required."
"By having this strong presence in the region, Fletcher Construction will be able to manage quality, costs and momentum."
Mr Simpson said his team will meet the Fletcher Construction project team in Christchurch today and that he anticipates Fletcher Construction will increase its Christchurch personnel from Monday.
The role of the project management office will include:
- Identifying and engaging the sub-contractors needed to repair the properties such as small building companies, designers, architects and tradespeople,
- Handling every aspect of repairs for householders,
- Ensuring a design and build approach is taken,
- Agreeing the programme of repairs with EQC and managing costs,
- Inspections to ensure quality results are delivered.
Building repairs, from approximately $10,000 up to $100,000 and involving structural restoration or a moderate level of damage, will be managed through the office. Claims above EQC's cap of $100,000 plus GST will be handled by commercial insurers in accordance with their policies.
What happens next?
EQC will begin approaching people whose initial damage assessment is in the value range applicable to the project management office's work. The office will contact them to arrange their repairs unless they elect to opt out of the scheme.
ENDSFurther information:
Jo Martin Communications Adviser, EQC
Phone: (029) 978-6430
(04) 978-6400
Fax: (04) 978-6431
Email: info@eqc.govt.nz
Website: www.eqc.govt.nz
Mark Binns
Chief Executive Infrastructure, Fletcher Construction
Ph: +64 9 525 9151
Mob: +64 21 929 168