Engineering New Zealand will create an expert panel to resolve outstanding insurance claims, as part of the government’s new Greater Christchurch Claims Resolution Service.

According to Engineering New Zealand chief executive Susan Freeman-Greene, engineering disputes are behind many of the unresolved earthquake insurance claims in Christchurch.

“Engineering New Zealand wants to help untangle and solve these disputes,” she said in a statement. “As the professional home for all engineers, we bring an independent, expert point of view.”

The professional body claims to represent over 22,000 engineers from all over New Zealand.

Freeman-Greene said that having a panel of independent engineering experts will provide well-informed advice and facilitation services to help resolve claims.

“Earlier this year, we launched a process to help reconcile disparate seismic assessments,” she said. “The government has asked us to apply this model to help resolve Canterbury issues.

“It’s about getting the right engineering input at the right stage in the claims process.”