Home Information Packs (HIPs)

All properties coming on to the market will now require a Home Information Pack.

The intention of the legislation that has been introduced is to improve the buying and selling process. Because home buyers will have more information in the early stages of the buying process, they will be able to make decisions which will help to reduce the number of transactions that do not proceed to completion.

Home Information Packs must comprise

• Index
• Sale statement
• Evidence of title
• For new properties, copies of warranties and guarantees
• Standard searches (i.e. local authority inquiries, plus a drainage and water search)
• An energy performance certificate (see below)

• A home condition report, based on a professional survey of the property
• Copies of any planning, listed building and building regulation consents and approvals
• Replies to standard preliminary inquiries made on behalf of the potential buyers
• Any guarantees for work carried out on the property
• Other searches

• An Energy Performance Certificate will inform home buyers and sellers about a home’s energy efficiency using A to G ratings
• The certificates will also make recommendations for cost-effective energy saving improvements
• The EPC will be carried out by Domestic Energy Assessors who have taken a course in order to attain approved certification

• A copy of the lease
• Your most recent service charge accounts and receipts
• Building insurance policy details and payment receipts
• Copies of any regulations made by the landlord or management company
• The Memorandum and Articles of Association of the landlord or management company
• A new home warranty will also be required for leasehold properties, where applicable