Submissions to the Earthquake Commission’s (EQC) public inquiry have called for the state-owned insurer to better manage claims and quality assurance around assessments and repairs.

Transparency, expertise and empathy have also been raised as issues for the EQC, which is seeking ways to improve its response to natural disasters in New Zealand.

“There are already some clear themes coming through,” inquiry chairman Silvia Cartwright said.

“People have been prepared to detail their experiences, which clearly hasn’t been easy for some, and still focus on specific changes they feel are needed in how the EQC responds and handles insurance claims after disasters.

“Suggested changes are around issues such as the damage assessment process, managed repair process and claims management.”

Submissions to the inquiry closed yesterday. The inquiry will deliver its findings and recommendations by the end of the year.