New Zealand’s Earthquake Commission (EQC) is assessing sewer and stormwater pipes suspected of being quake-damaged, including 2500 that have already been inspected.

GM Customer and Claims Trish Keith says the commission currently has about 2500 drainage claims, but it expects this to increase to 6000.

“It has been some time since some drains were inspected,” Ms Keith said. “To ensure we have the best information about all potentially affected properties, the EQC has decided that all sewer and stormwater drains where owners have lodged a drainage claim that hasn’t been settled yet will be inspected, whether an inspection has already been done or not.”

Opposition spokesman for Canterbury reconstruction Megan Woods has accused the commission of having to repeat inspections because previous checks were unreliable.

Dr Woods has called for an independent inquiry into the commission.

The EQC has assured consumers inspections will be carried out by licensed plumbers and drainlayers, unlike earlier checks that in many cases were led by unqualified contractors.

“The commission has contracted some of Canterbury’s largest drainlaying firms, all of which are licensed with the New Zealand Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board, to carry out the work at no cost to homeowners,” Ms Keith said. “These contractors are also certifying drainlayers, which is the highest qualification available.”

Where earthquake damage is confirmed, the EQC will determine a cash settlement on the basis of inspectors’ recommended repair strategy.

“Homeowners can have confidence that if further damage is discovered during the repair process they can get in contact with the EQC and, if we agree the damage is earthquake-related, an additional payment to cover additional costs may be made,” Ms Keith said.