Since 14 December 2007, HIPs legislation has been extended to studio flats, 1 and 2 bedroom properties. This means all home sellers with properties new to the market in England and Wales will be required to provide a Home Information Pack (HIP). Until 1 January 2009 marketing of the property can begin as soon as a Pack has been ordered and arrangements for payment have been made, rather than having to wait until the Pack is received.
It is a set of documents, provided by the home seller, giving important information about a property to a
potential buyer including its energy efficiency, searches and evidence of ownership.
Certain items are compulsory, including:
Leasehold, common hold, incomplete or brand new properties require further information to be included. Sellers will have the
option to include a Home Condition Report, however this is likely to cost extra. It is similar to a Home Buyer Survey, has to be carried out by a qualified Home Inspector and gives an objective opinion on the condition of the property.
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates the energy efficiency of the property and its carbon emissions on a scale of A-G, just like the charts shown on new fridges and washing machines. The EPC also indicates likely fuel costs and suggests ways to improve efficiency.
The following are temporarily exempt from the requirement to have a HIP; this will end at a future date, which has yet to
be confirmed. If a property is still on the market and unsold at that future date, then a HIP will be required.
Numerous organisations have set themselves up to compile HIPs and costs vary from provider to provider. We have researched the market and have chosen a quick, reliable and cost effective solution. There is a choice of payment terms available.
If you have any questions about HIPs or would like to know more about how we can market your home, click on the link to contact us on 01283 739004.
Copyright © 2010 Friston Small