Time is running out for storm-affected Auckland homeowners to register to find out about any future risk to life at their home, and if they qualify for construction funding or a council buy-out.
Identifying future danger
Following major storms early last year, Auckland Council has been assessing and categorising affected properties based on whether there is an ‘intolerable risk to life’ from future storms, and whether there is anything that can be done to reduce the risk.
There are construction and consenting grants available for homeowners to do work on their property that will reduce this risk to life, including building retaining walls and shifting or raising the home. Where there is nothing that can be done on the property or in the community to reduce this risk, the council is offering a voluntary buy-out at a valuation before any storm damage.
Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson says 2023 for Auckland will go down in history as one of the darkest times for our city after the pandemic.
“A years’ worth of rain in just a few months was unprecedented and unstoppable. There was tragedy through the loss of lives, homes and livelihoods,” says Ms Simpson.
“Sadly, there is a strong likelihood that we will experience severe weather events like this again. Signing up for these assessments will give those who live in flood prone properties a better understanding of the future risk at their home and a potential opportunity for support, especially where an intolerable risk to life is identified due to the location of their property.
“There are only few more weeks for affected homeowners to register for this one-off opportunity. I strongly encourage you to get in touch, as if you’re not in the programme you will not be eligible for additional support. We are acutely aware of the stress some homeowners are still experiencing so please, if you or someone you know could benefit from this assessment and support, please share the information and deadline date.”
Desley Simpson (centre) visiting flood impacted neighbourhoods in Māngere
A one-off, limited offer
With a 30 September deadline to register for the categorisation programme, Natural and Built Environment Lead, Craig Hobbs, says just over 40% of more than 7000 properties impacted across Auckland have signed up.
“We are making a special effort to reach homeowners we think could be at high risk but haven’t heard back from many of them. Support under the categorisation programme might be the best and last option to receive local and central government support to make their home safe or move somewhere safer,” Mr Hobbs says.
“It’s a voluntary programme, but we are strongly urging high risk homeowners to consider registering. These include those that had over half a metre of flooding in their home, received a red or yellow placard (sticker), or were affected by a landslide. It’s also important owners in impacted multi-unit developments, like apartment buildings or townhouse complexes, look at registering.”
Homeowners in these high-risk situations are strongly encouraged to consider registering as soon as possible before the 30 September registration deadline. To find out more and register, visit ourauckland.nz/storms or call our Recovery Office team on 09 884 2070.
Craig Hobbs, Natural and Built Environment Lead. Tāmaki Makaurau Recovery Office
