Auto Inspection Services, a key compliance aspect of the Canterbury used import trade, was badly damaged by fire this morning. The extent of the damage means the compliance centre will be out of action for the foreseeable future.
Smoke from the Sydenham site billowed across the central city and triggered air quality alerts, according to an AutoTalk report. Nine appliances attended the scene.
Nick Owens, the MD of the company, says he has not yet had a chance to assess the building fully.
However, he did say “It is significant damage; we likely won’t be operating from this site again.” He added that around one-third of the roof is missing.
Evidently, the fire was caused by a lithium-ion battery spontaneously combusting in rubbish at the adjacent transfer station.
No one was in the building at the time.
Owens says at least six vehicles burned in the fire, including his own motorhome. About 40 vehicles were on-site at the time, most likely affected by smoke contamination.
One upside is that depressed market conditions meant that the number of vehicles on site was lower than usual.
Commenting on the incident, a spokesperson from the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) said it was a significant loss to the industry but was glad no-one was harmed.
“Unfortunately, it looks like it will take many months to rebuild his successful business.”
“Nick Owens has been a valued member of our association for many years and has made significant contributions to our policy discussions and council deliberations. VIA will continue to offer any support we can to Nick and his team during this challenging time.”
