Where to from here…Canterbury March 2011.
It is 3 weeks since the 6.3 magnitude earthquake hit our city of Christchurch.
We are all struggling along with the reality of what such an event brings. We have witnessed the horror of Japan’s earthquake and are truly linked by the mutual tragedy of these events.
So, where to from here? The local council and government are trying desperately to restore power, water and sewerage to the entire city. They have managed this in the majority of the city but the very badly affected areas are testing their ability and skills and it is a very frustrating time for all concerned. We all now, more then ever, value the work involved in having amenities such as fresh water and flushing toilets and those trying to restore such services deserve our gratitude. The roads above these services are so badly damaged and just trying to get to the pipes and lines must be testing the workmens patience.
Rebuilding the many damaged homes and commercial buildings will too be a huge task and will take a very long time and in the meantime presents some very trying situations. Getting assessments and reports completed to allow sales to continue is very important. Vendors are being advised to get structural reports done prior to listing their homes for sale to give purchasers peace of mind in purchasing and EQC claims are being transferred from one owner to the next via the lawyers and sale and purchase contracts. Insurance is still the most difficult aspect to selling but most insurance companies are agreeing to transfer existing insurance across to the new owner after a conversation and it too is in the Sale and Purchase contract, approximately 10-15 working days currently is the normal time-frame to complete this process. Just check that there is no stand-down period from the day the insurance takes effect which is from possession date.
On the positive side, things are progressing and people are still wanting to buy in Christchurch for many reasons. Access to the CBD is improving allowing business owners some opportunities to retrieve essential business tools and try to get back on with their business. Kids are returning to school slowly even if they are having to combine schools and split the day into two different time frames to allow this. Some work-places are now operating and the ones that are open are very busy as are the open retail shops. People are still wanting to go out and have social contact so the single level establishments are proving popular for eating and drinking. The water is still needing to be boiled to contain any gastro problems but we are getting there.
All we can hope for now is for water, power and sewerage to be returned to all so we can get on with our lives no matter what the future holds for each of us , we just want to move forward and live. Kia Kaha Christchurch! Stay Strong Christchurch!
