Building and Construction Minister Maurice Williamson is being urged by a group, helping people who have lost their homes and income due to leaky homes, to find a solution for the persistent problem.

It has appeared that Williamson has clarified that it is a big surprise for him to learn about the enormity of the leaky homes saga. He predicts the repair bill for 20,000 homes to be nearly $3.6 billion.

The Homeowners and Buyers Association are apparently shocked at his comments.

As per John Gray of the association, "The minister needs to come out with the details of the report he's basing his estimates on and get on with finding a solution to the problem. We need action now. We need a rescue package for these people."

The report the minister has will be the first authoritative report that really delves into the size of the problem, said Mr. Gray.