Home Information Packs

A Guide for Buyers

When should I expect to receive my HIP for a property I am interested in buying?

Since August 1st 2007 for four bedroom properties and September 10 2007 for three bedroom houses, properties that you are interested in will fall within the scope of the HIP scheme. From January 1st 2008, all properties will have to buy a Home Information Pack. Typically, the seller (HIPs A Guide for Sellers) will commission the HIP before marketing the property and the EPC must be given by the date of exchange. However, there is currently no set time limit for the provision of the rest of the HIP. After January 2008, all properties apart from those exempt from the scheme must produce a complete a 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.