HIPs (HOME INFORMATION PACKS)

What is a home information pack?

HIPs are meant to speed up property transactions and reduce the number of property sales which fall through.

The law requires every home that is put on the market to have a home information pack if that home has not been continuously marketed prior to the various dates announced by the Government depending on the number of bedrooms.

We need to have your HIP available so that we can supply copies of it to your potential buyers, should they ask for it. We also have to include within it an Energy Performance Certificate for your home which must also be displayed on your property sales particulars.

Currently we can start marketing as soon as a HIP has been requested, but from 1st June 2008 homes cannot be marketed until the HIP is in place.

What does a home information pack contain?

The main elements are:

•Index
•Sale statement
•Evidence of title
•Leasehold/commonhold documents
•Searches
•An Energy Performance Certificate

What is an Energy Performance Certificate?

It is a rating system that will measure energy efficiency, and general condition of a home. The theory is that buyers can cut back on energy bills by purchasing energy efficient homes.

How do I get a Home Information pack?

We can arrange a HIP for you or you can obtain one yourself from other sources such as solicitors or specialist pack providers.

You can get more information about the home information pack at the following link:

www.homeinformationpack.gov.uk