East Kent Earthquake

A team of 18 Shepway District Council building control officers and structural engineers, along with colleagues from other Kent authorities, are continuing to assess and make safe properties damaged in Saturday's earthquake.

Currently around 40 homes are unsafe for residents to return to. This number fluctuates as properties are made safe by building control and emergency services, and others are found to be unsafe as investigations progress.

Last night the council housed five families in a local hotel, though many more made their own arrangements, staying with friends or family.

The emergency call centre, set up by Shepway Council, has taken more than 800 reports of damaged properties. The Shepway emergency centre numbers are 01303 853 566 or 01303 853 567.

"The safety of our residents is our top concern," says Shepway Chief Executive, Alistair Stewart. "Our surveyors have worked all weekend to assess damaged homes and advise residents on whether there are any immediate dangers. They have also been working with the Fire Brigade removing damaged chimneys and making buildings safe.

"Everyone has been very shocked by this incident, and I would like to thank all of our residents for their calm approach and cooperation in working with us to help assess damage. Praise should also go the emergency services, the Salvation Army who opened their doors for a weekend rest centre for displaced families and to the team of Shepway staff who worked all weekend and to colleagues from neighbouring authorities who responded to our request for assistance.

"While our immediate concern has been the safety of our local residents, we are aware that over the coming weeks people will have to apply to insurance companies, deal with private landlords and managing agents to get their properties repaired. We have set up a team to help residents with paperwork and help guide them in the right direction. Anyone wanting this help can call us at the emergency centre on 01303 853 566 or 01303 853 567. Over coming days we will also be looking at what other assistance local people need and doing our best to meet these needs. "

Calls are continuing to come in to the Shepway emergency centre from concerned residents. The council has put information on its website for the public - www.shepway.gov.uk

• Loose brickwork on chimneys or any chimneys that have moved or shifted
• Newly appeared large cracks on external walls
• Loose slates or tiles
• Unexpected debris around your property
• Doors or windows that are not shutting properly
• Bowed walls

Home owners are being advised to contact their insurance company who will advise on the next steps you should take and whether you are covered for any necessary work.

People in rented property are advised to contact their landlord or managing agent for the property and ask them to make arrangements to assess the damage and make repairs.