HOME INFORMATION PACKS - HIPS

On 22 May 2007, government announced that Home Information Packs (HIPs) and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), which were due to be introduced on 1 June 2007, would be introduced on August 1, implemented on a phased basis. From 1 August packs - including energy performance certificates - were required for the sale of four bedroom properties and larger. These are the properties which are believed to be the most energy inefficient. Government intends that packs for smaller properties will be phased in as sufficient energy assessors become ready to start work. With effect from 10 September 2007, packs are required also for three bedroom properties. Peter Alan Ltd already has guaranteed supply of EPC capacity through its arrangement with Energy Assess Wales, a trading name of Principality Building Society.

The introduction of HIPs is part of Government’s efforts to improve the home buying and selling process and the reforms required to cut carbon emissions from homes.

You may find it useful to refer also to the government's website specifically aimed at HIPs :    www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk, this site can provide more detailed guidance on HIPS from both the seller and  buyers' perspective.