Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee says changes to building standards recommended by the Royal Commission on the Canterbury Earthquakes should be brought in quickly, but with careful consideration.
Mr Brownlee says the recommendations in an interim report made public on Wednesday are eminently sensible.
He says changes to help prevent building failures in earthquakes should be put into action by the Department of Building and Housing, but care is needed to ensure they achieve what they are intended to do.
"We don't do anyone a favour if there are slapped-up decisions made that are going to cost them in the long run."
The minister says the recommendations should save people from individually having to take on the cost of assessing land and foundation suitability.
Guidelines could be fast-tracked, says Williamson
Building and Construction Minister Maurice Williamson told Morning Report the Government could fast-track the guidelines by using the special powers it has under the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Act.
Mr Williamson says that while moving as fast as possible, the Government must avoid setting an excessively high standard that will make some buildings uneconomic to build or reinforce.
