Customers of the Earthquake Commission who are unhappy with its valuation of their property, will soon be able to access an independent mediation service.
An independent mediation service between the EQC and the Arbitrators' and Mediators' Institute is due to begin in August.
The commission's general manager of customer services, Bruce Emson, says there can be significant differences in customers' perspectives and those of the commission, and those disputes are best resolved with the help of someone who has no personal bias.
He says the service will be funded by the commission and will be free of charge.
He says if a settlement is reached, an agreement will be signed that is contractually binding.
