H I P's

What is a Home Information Pack?

Since the 14th December 2007, every home put on the market, is required to have a Home Information Pack (HIP) supplied by the seller or the sellers agent. This is a set of documents that provides the buyer with key information about the property at the beginning of the sales process. This means that there is less chance of buyers becoming aware of any surprises at the end of the process that could cause delays or extra expense to the buyer or seller.

What is included in a HIP?

A HIP is made up of required (compulsory), and authorised (optional) items.

There should not be any marketing or advertising material contained in the pack, so make sure it contains official information only.

Below is a list of the compulsory documents that need to be included in a HIP.

Compulsory Documents

Freehold properties

• Home Information Pack Index
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
• Sustainability information (required for newly built homes only)
• Sale statement
• Evidence of title
• Standard searches (local authority and drainage and water)

Leasehold properties

• All the compulsory documents above
• A copy of the lease

Optional Documents

Other documents may be included in your HIP which are not compulsory, some examples of these are listed below. These are all optional, but if they are included they may help to speed up the sale and ensure that the sales process runs more smoothly.

For example,

• Home Condition Report
• Legal summary
• Hhome use/contents form
• Specialised search reports, or other documents (for example, the seller may opt to include a mining search in a mining area)

How go I gat a HIP, and how much does it cost?

You can compile your own pack, or you can hire an estate agent, solicitor or HIP provider to compile it for you. Always make sure that your HIP provider is signed up to a code of practice, such as the HIP Code.

There is no 'standard look' for a Home Information Pack. The only requirements are that it includes all of the compulsory ('required') items and that certain important documents are no more than three months old when the property was first marketed for sale.

The seller is responsible for the cost of a HIP. The cost of the HIP can vary (usually from £130 upwards), so make sure you check the market rate. Some HIP providers may offer free packs, or a no-sale, no-fee arrangement, but you should always check the terms and conditions of your contract.