Are You Ready? - The New HIP

1st March 2009

From the 6th of April 2009 there are important changes which need to be taken into account if you are involved in buying or selling a home.

The changes being made to Home Information Packs (HIPs) include:

1. Removal of the first day marketing exemption to ensure that HIPs are available to buyers as soon as the property comes onto the market. Local searches however can still be included in the Hip up to 28 days after the first point of marketing. 
2. Introduction of the  Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ)  has become a mandatory requirement of the HIP; it is to be completed by the seller of the property. Its aim is to provide buyers with information about the property, such as flood risk and gas and electrical safety. 
3. An end to the use of insurance in the personal searches to cover missing data.  

HIPs including the following documents must be completed before a property can be marketed

• Home  Information Pack Index 
• Energy Performance Certificate 
• Sale Statement 
• Evidence of Title (For Registered Estates) 
• Official Search of the Index Map (For Unregistered Estates) 
• Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ). 

It is hoped that these revised changes to the way HIPs are created will make the process of buying or selling a home easier, more transparent and more informed for clients.

Solomons Solicitors can produce a fixed cost legally compliant HIP on your behalf.

We are expert Conveyancing Solicitors in Bournemouth with solutions to all your Property problems. Simply contact us today on 01202 802 807.