New Zealand buildings could be subjected to a rating system that would provide a simple guide to building safety in an earthquake.

A group including earthquake engineers and business are pushing for the system, under which a panel of engineers would rate buildings from one to five stars.

The system could be introduced within the next few months.

Christchurch lawyer Don Holden says the “Quake Star” project would build on work done in Taiwan and California and would assist the insurance industry by providing a quick and simple measure of building safety.

He says the system could be implemented quickly because it would not be part of building regulations or need government involvement.

Star ratings would be voluntary, although Mr Holden says the Taiwan experience has shown that building owners who get a five-star rating can ask for higher prices, so there is an incentive for them to participate.

The ratings can be used for existing and new buildings and Mr Holden says it will encourage owners to upgrade their properties.

The system would be funded by stakeholders and would use an international panel who could be sent building data such as construction materials and methods. 

Once the group’s opinions were gathered, a central agency would send their comments around again for further comment, providing an international poll of expert opinion.