What is a HIP?
As of May 2010, HIPS were completely scrapped by the Government and are no longer in use.
Since January 1st 2008, sellers of most properties have had to buy a Home Information Pack. The information contained in a HIP included:
- Home Information Pack Index
- Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ)
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) or Predicted Energy Assessment (PEA)
- Sustainability information (required for newly built homes)
- Sale statement
- Svidence of title
The seller (HIPs A Guide for Sellers) will commission the HIP before marketing the property, and all properties (apart from those exempt from the scheme) must produce a complete HIP, including the EPC, at the time it is placed on the market.
How much will a Home Information Pack cost me?
HIPs will not cost the buyer anything. Sellers may charge a small amount for copying and postage.
What happens if I am not given a HIP/EPC?
Legally, sellers must provide this information to potential buyers within 14 days of request. If a seller refuses to provide a copy, you can inform your Local Authority Trading Standards Officer. There are certain cases where sellers can refuse to supply a HIP such as if the seller believes that the prospective buyer cannot afford the property or is not really interested in buying the property.