HIPS - The Government have introduced Home Information Packs with the aim of improving the home buying and selling process.  HIPs bring together all the information needed by both the buyers and sellers right at the very start of the home buying process. This helps all involved parties to commit more quickly and should reduce the risk of sales falling through.  If you are the vendor, you need to make sure that you made provision for the pack by the time you market your property.

Why should I need a Home Information Pack?

For vendors, providing a HIP upfront reduces the risk of any sudden issues in the sale, that could hinder the sale as buyers will have more information from the start.  For purchasers, a HIP provides vital information about properties they are considering buying, at no cost to themselves.

What goes into a HIP?

HIPs contain various and important pieces of information that purchasers and vendors will needs to know . The following compulsory documents must be included, which maybe added to over time with new legislation, however if any are missing then the index should explain why:

• The Index of contents.
• An EPC
• The Sale statement.
• All of the Standard searches, inculding Local Authority, drainage, water, etc.
• Evidence of title)
• Additional leasehold information, if appropriate.

You can also include other documents such as a Home Condition Report, an environmental or flood risk search and other information that would be of interest to a potential buyer as defined in the regulations. The pack will also ensure that important information about improving the energy efficiency of homes is made available every time a property is sold.

When is a HIP needed?

Anyone selling a residential property marketed for sale from 14th December 2007 in England and Wales needs a HIP. The HIP, including the EPC, must be available to anyone interested in the property from the time it is first placed on the market. The duty to ensure that there is a pack available falls on the 'Responsible Person' ( the estate agent ). Failure to comply with these obligations may result in penalties being imposed against the 'Responsible Person'. It is therefore important to choose a reputable agent who uses a reputable HIP pack provider. There are certain situations when selling an apartment that would mean you are exempt, please call our sales team on 0161 839 9654to discuss if your property is exempt from needing a HIP.

How long is the HIP valid for?

The Evidence of Title and the searches cannot be over three months old when a property is first marketed. Energy Performance Certificates cannot be more than one year old.

How is a HIP supplied?

The HIP is usually supplied electronically rather than on paper, and then any potential buyers can also be sent the HIP electrinically. If someone requests a paper copy then a reasonable charge for copying and postage can be applied.

What is an Energy Performance Certificate?

An Energy Performace Certificate is a key part of a Home Information Pack. At a glance, buyers will be able to see the property's energy efficiency - a bit like when you buy a washing machine or fridge freezer. The house is given a rating from A - G, where A is the most energy efficient. The Energy Performance Certificate will identify cost effective improvements to reduce fuel bills and make the property a more attractive prospect. The certificates are commissioned from an accredited Energy Assessor, who visits the property to collect the relevant data and creates the certificate. This data includes the date, construction and location of the property and relevant fittings (heating systems, insulation or double glazing, for example).

Why trust an Energy Performance Certificate?

All domestic energy assessors must be members of an accreditation scheme set up to ensure that their work can be trusted by sellers, buyers and lenders. These schemes are designed to ensure assessors are properly qualified, have had a criminal record check and have adequate insurance cover for any claims that may be made. Any assessors who do not meet the neccessary standards can be suspended. There is a public register for domestic energy assessors at epcregister.com.

Choosing the right HIP provider

HIPs are a legal requirement and a key part of the property buying and selling process, they contain key legal documents and useful information for the buyer. They also can carry penalties for getting them wrong. pad Resdiential can suggest RICHARDS GRAY give a good quality service with fast turnaround times at good prices, and who will respect your home on their vist, little things like taking their shoes off when entering a home with light coloured carpets can make a big difference, call 0161 839 9654 and ask for a member of the sales team to discuss your HIP requirments.