Home Information Packs FAQ
14th January 2008
Everything you wanted to know about HIPs.........but were afraid to ask!!
Home Information Packs (HIPS), sometimes know as Sellers Packs are simply a collection of documents and information about a property which you are selling.
Do I Need A Home Information Pack To Sell My Property?
Yes. Since 14 December 2007, all homes being marketed for sale in England and Wales required a Home Information Pack (HIP). The seller is responsible for the cost of compiling the HIP.
When In The Selling Process Do I Need To Get My Home Information Pack?
At the time of writing you only need to have commissioned your HIP when you put your home on the market, however this is due to change on 1st June 2008, when you will be expected to have your HIP ready before your home goes on the market. But as with all things to do with the launch of Home Information Packs, this should be considered as subject to change.
How Much Does A Home Information Pack Cost?
Prices for basic a Home Information Pack start at around £250+VAT and can go up to around £499+VAT, and if you require any of the optional documents in your pack this will usually be extra.
What is in a Home Information Pack?
A HIP consists of:
- An index of the HIP
- A summary of the terms of sale
- Title deeds for the property
- Searches - local authority enquiries and a drainage and water search.
- An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Commonhold information (if applicable)
- A copy of the lease for leasehold properties.
- Optional Documents
What Are The Optional Documents In A Home Information Pack?
The optional documents are a Home Condition Report, a summary of the legal details of the sale, home use and contents forms (which can include details on boundaries, shared access, what fixtures and fittings are included in the sale and any other information which may be of use to the buyer) and any searches which are customary in certain areas such as mining searches.
What Is An Energy Performance Certificate?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is the report of an inspection carried out on your property by an accredited Energy Assessor, which indicates the energy efficiency of the home. The factors taken into consideration include the heating system, insulation and double glazing. The property is then given an energy efficiency rating from A to G, A being the most energy efficient and having the lowest carbon emissions.
What Is A Home Condition Report?
A Home Condition Report (HCR) is a document similar to a mid range survey covering the structural condition of your property. The document is only valid if the survey has been carried out be a qualified Home Inspector. It offers buyers the opportunity to be upfront about any issues the property may have, preventing the possibility of the house sale falling through at the survey stage. This document may become mandatory in HIPs in the future.
How Do I Get a Home Information Pack?
Your estate agent may be able to organise your HIP for you. Solicitors and mortgage brokers may also offer this service. You can also go to a specialist Home Information Pack provider. There are qualifications available for those compiling HIPs, but you do not need to be qualified to work as a Home Information Pack provider. However an Energy Performance Certificate can only be issued by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor or Home Inspector.
Can I Put Together My Own Home Information Pack?
Yes. Just as it has always been possible to conveyance your own property, you can request your own searches and copy your own title deeds. The Energy Performance Certificate must be issued by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor. You can find a Domestic Energy Assessor at www.hcrregister.com/searchAssessor.html.
Are There Any Websites Which Might Help Me?
Home Information Packs Official Website
Energy Saving Trust Information on EPCs
Association Of Home Information Pack Providers
Do I Have To Give My Home Information Pack To Everyone Who Views My House?
You or your estate agent do not have to give a copy of your HIP to anyone if you believe that they are not genuinely interested in buying your house, believe that they could not afford to buy your house or to anyone that you do not wish to sell your house to. You may make a reasonable charge to cover the cost of copying and postage, which should deter most time wasters.
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