Rental crisis hampering Christchurch rebuild

Real estate agents who manage 11,500 Christchurch residential rental properties say there is virtually nothing available.

REINZ Christchurch-based director Tony McPherson said two-thirds of those surveyed last week by the Institute said they need to re-locate tenants so repair work can be conducted on damaged homes.

"Most are finding it either 'impossible' or 'very difficult' to find alternative accommodation for tenants and homeowners who need a short-term place to stay," he said.

McPherson said typically people needed to vacate a property for between three to four weeks while repairs are conducted, and that the rental shortage is worsening as the recovery phase starts to head towards rebuilding.