Home Information Packs (HIPs)

From April 2006 all residential properties are required by law to obtain a Home Information Pack (HIP) before a property can be put on the market; it is the responsibility of the seller or estate agent to provide the Home Information Pack for any potential buyers of the property. The document is made up of compulsory and optional

Why do I need a HIP?

A HIP is a collection of documents that provide the buyer with key information that must be provided by the sell or the seller’s agent. The HIP lets buyers see important information about the property at the start of the process, free of charge. This means there is less chance of buyers becoming aware of any surprises at the end of the process. The HIP can help reduce delays and extra expense to the buyer and seller.

What are compulsory documents are required?

• Home Information Pack Index
• Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ)
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) / Predicted Energy Assessment (EPA)
• Sustainability information for newly built homes (required for newly built homes)
• Sale statement
• Evidence of title
• Standard searches (local authority, drainage and water)
• Copy of the Lease (leasehold properties only)

What are the optional documents?

Optional documents that you may wish to include in your HIP are as follows:

Who prepares the HIP?

The quality of the Home Information Pack that you are provided is key to a successful sale, there are many unregulated HIPs on the market and in a bid to cut costs you may find that vital information is missing meaning that your purchase is in danger of falling through and that buyers are in danger of incurring longer term costs due to an incomplete HIP.

A solicitor is the only person who can ensure that a complete HIP will be guaranteed every time, this means the seller will benefit from faster sales and less chance of the sale falling through. Solomons Solicitors are dedicated to providing fully compliant legal HIPs at competitive rates, prices start at £275+VAT please contact a member of our Conveyancing team who will be happy to assist you.

Book an Appointment

For a free initial consultation with a member of our Private Client Team at either our Bournemouth or Christchurch office, simply contact us, we’ll book you an appointment at a time that is convenient for you and you’ll be able to discuss the process and outcome of your matter with a specialist in that area. Iain Lorrimer - Legal Executive T:  01202 802 807 E: iain@solomonslaw.co.uk