Bills roll in for house of horrors neighbours

Neighbours of property adjacent to house of horrors, Christchurch, face demolition bills; disappointed Council, Fire Service won't discuss

The owners of the home adjacent to Christchurch's so-called house of horrors are facing frustration at every turn as more bills roll in for the property that no longer exists.

Christina and Jason Drain's property was attached to the house in the suburb of Wainoni, where Jason Somerville murdered his wife Rebecca Chamberlain and neighbour Tisha Lowry and buried their bodies under the floorboards.

After four arson attacks, the Fire Service pulled down both dwellings.

The Drains still owe $130,000 on the house and have learned that the Fire Service is charging them for the building's demolition. She says it has been disappointing that there has been no dialogue with the Christchurch City Council or the Fire Service about the issue.

The council intends to put a charge on the land to recover the cost of clearing the rubble.