Searching for assistance: Habitat partnerships make a new roof a reality

Jordan’s rainy-day anxiety has come to an end, thanks to Habitat for Humanity’s Home Repair programme, with support from Waikato-Tainui and NYC Roofing.

First-time buyers Jordan and Cody did their due diligence before purchasing their Hamilton home – including getting a builder’s report. Their home-to-be had an upstairs room that needed plastering and painting, but otherwise everything checked out.

The family of six moved in last May and arranged a contractor to complete the work, but encountered a problem after being told the wall linings would need more support.

“We took it down and we started finding water stains and mould and that’s just when everything started,” Jordan says.

“It kind of ruined that feeling of ‘yay, we bought a house’. I’ve got two boys who’ve got asthma, who knows what they could have been breathing.”

After further investigation, they were told they’d need a full reroof – an idea they struggled with so soon after purchasing their home.

Towards the end of winter, the family started to notice water coming into the cupboards. They worried the damage would spread further in the time it took them to save for the repairs.

An online search for assistance led Jordan to Habitat’s Home Repair programme, which offers affordable, interest-free loans of up to $20,000 for critical repairs and maintenance. Waikato-Tainui, who work in partnership with Habitat, also came on board to cover a portion of the repair costs.

Jordan says it’s amazing to have the support of their iwi.

“Honestly, I’m so blessed and it’s just been amazing for them to come through and help. I’ll be forever grateful. We’re just proud to be Tainui members.”

Contractors NYC Roofing have also supported the repairs – including arranging for the solar panels to be removed and put back up by Electric Empire at no additional cost to the homeowners.

Jordan is looking forward to having a healthier home and less stress going into winter this year, knowing her home is a safe environment for their four kids. She feels particularly grateful to Habitat Central operations manager, Alayne, who she says has been extremely helpful.

“For someone I haven’t met face-to-face, she has been so kind and made me feel like we matter. She’s gone above and beyond.

“To have that interest-free loan has been a hand up. I’m just really lucky to be in this position.”