The Earthquake Commission could soon face a flood of people wanting their repairs reviewed after a landmark judgement at the High Court, a Christchurch lawyer is warning.

MORE: Landmark settlement for homeowners against EQC

Ninety-eight Canterbury homeowners won a settlement with EQC yesterday which clarifies EQC's obligations under the Act, and removes reliance on MBIE guidelines.

Previously EQC has used phrases such as 'pre-earthquake standard' and 'like for like' when describing their obligations which created the impression that the standard EQC had to meet was something less than as when new.

The settlement clarifies that the standard required is higher.

Lane Neave partner Duncan Webb believes EQC will soon see a number of people with very valid claims.

"EQC settled a whole lot of people for cash and they settled them on the basis that it was less than the as-new repair standard and those are the people that will be going back and saying 'You haven't actually paid me enough'," Webb said.

EQC argues that it was always following the same guidelines, but Webb argues there would be "a lot of people out there who wouldn't agree."

"To be honest, I've seen a case where EQC has required people to come up with money for additional works and this agreement makes it clear that people don't have to come with that additional money."

The homeowners did not seek any damages in the case.