An Update for Southern Response

If you are a Canterbury homeowner who settled with Southern Response prior to 1 October 2014, you may be entitled to compensation.

Background

In the High Court decision of Southern Response Earthquake Services Ltd v Dodds [2020] 3 NZLR 383 the Court found that Southern Response had misrepresented the cost to rebuild the Dodds’ house by providing them with a “Detailed Repair/Rebuild Analysis.” which did not contain additional costs Southern Response would incur when rebuilding.

Following this decision Southern Response has set up a settlement package for eligible homeowners consisting of an additional payment of professional fees, contingencies and interest since the date of your original settlement.

If you owned a house insured by AMI, and settled an earthquake damage claim between 10 September 2010 and 1 October 2014 (including where you no longer own the property, or the person who owned the property at the time of the original settlement has since passed away), you may be eligible for a payment from Southern Response.

Seeking independent legal advice

Cavell Leitch can assist in establishing whether you are eligible for a settlement package from Southern Response and can provide independent legal advice regarding your options on any settlement package.

What does it cost?

Cavell Leitch is providing legal services for a fixed fee of $2,500 plus GST, under their terms of engagement. Southern Response will reimburse you for $2,000 of that fee if you are eligible. There will be no cost to you if you are not eligible.

How we can help

We are well versed in assisting clients regarding earthquake claims and can provide tailored advice to you on any offer, the settlement documentation and in negotiations with Southern Response.