Waiting on EQC repairs

Our Experts Answer:

Rates and insurance etc are expenses which go hand in hand with owning a property. Since they are not incurred as a direct result of the earthquake damage, they will not form part of an insurance claim. They are also classed as a “consequential loss”, which domestic house policies generally do not provide cover for. However they can continue to be claimed as an expense against the property for taxation purposes. It may be worth approaching your local council to ask if they are providing any rate relief or a rebate on rates. Some insurers are also offering discounts on policies where the house is waiting for earthquake damage to be repaired.