Home Information Packs!

Under the provisions of the Housing Act 2004 a Home Information Pack (HIP), is also known as a Seller's Pack. It should be provided before a property in England and Wales can be put on the open market for sale with vacant possession. The pack consists of a set of documents; namely the property: an Energy Performance Certificate, local authority searches, title documents, guarantees, etc.

You can choose from a range of conveyancers, property solicitors and independent Estate Agents by using simple search listings to find competitive low cost Home Information Packs in your particular area. Independent companies can also help save money and bring benefits to you. If you wish to change your agent marketing your property, your HIP is portable, since you would have bought it from an independent company. HIPs were introduced in despite stiff opposition from the building industry and estate agents, as well chartered surveyors. Some of the frequently asked questions on HIP are as follows:

Why you may need a HIP?

A HIP is a set of documents that provides the buyer with key information on the property. It must be provided by the seller or the seller's agent. It is a legal requirement without which you cant market your property. The HIP allows buyers view important information about the property at the start of the process, free of charge. This kind of benefit allows buyers become aware of any surprises at the end of the process. The HIP can also help reduce delays and extra expense to the buyer and seller. The Home Information Pack is mandatory for most homes in the market in England and Wales.

What does a HIP contain?

The HIP is made up of required and authorised (optional) items. It shouldn't have any marketing or advertising material in the pack. It should have only official information.

Who prepares HIPs?

Sellers can instruct their Solicitors, estate agents, separate pack providers, or do it themselves.

You must attach certain documents in a Home Information Pack:

Home Information Pack Index
Evidence of title
Standard searches
Energy Performance Certificate
Sale statement
Additional information for leasehold and common hold sales, where appropriate.

Most of the information in the Home Information Pack is already used in the Conveyancing process but is currently obtained after a sale has been agreed. As per the new regulations, the responsibility to obtain and pay for the home information pack documents passes from the buyer to the seller and the seller must order the HIP before placing the property on the market.