What is a HIP? A HIP or a Home Information Pack is a collection of documents that is required when homes are marketed for sale to the public. Some documents are compulsory and others are optional (but only those documents permitted by the Government may be included). The compulsory documents are also referred to as ‘required’ documents. The optional documents are sometimes called ‘authorised’ documents. The compulsory documents are:
Optional documents may be included if the seller thinks they may help the buyer.
Most home owners request Home Information Packs containing only the compulsory documents. An EPC or Energy Performance Certificate gives a home two ratings:
The ratings are graded A-G where A is the best. The most efficient homes should have the lowest fuel bills and least impact on the environment through carbon dioxide emissions. Most homes in England and Wales fall into the bands D and E. The EPC also includes recommendations on ways to improve the home's energy efficiency: to use less fuel and to be kinder to the environment. A graph (similar to those found on new fridges and freezers) is included in the EPC showing the current grading of the house. The graph will also show the potential grade that could be achieved by following the recommendations. The EPC graph is included in the HIP and in the sale particulars of the home. Where can I get a HIP? It is generally cheaper to buy directly from a dedicated HIP provider. How long will it take to produce a HIP? A HIP can be produced in as little as 3 days but generally speaking most HIPS will be completed within 5-10 working days. The HIP Code was introduced to deliver quality standards and a Code of Practice for Home Information Pack providers. It provides protection for homebuyers, sellers, estate agents, conveyancers and mortgage lenders who rely on the information included in a Home Information Pack (HIP). The HIP Code is owned and maintained by the Association of Home Information Pack Providers (AHIPP). The Property Codes Compliance Board maintains a register of all HIP providers who subscribe to the HIP Code. You can check whether a HIP provider subscribes to the Code by contacting the Property Codes Compliance Board at www.propertycodes.org.uk. The requirements of the HIP Code include:
HIP regulations only apply to homes in England and Wales. Most homes coming onto the open market from 14 December 2007 need to have a HIP. There are some homes which do not need a HIP. These include but are not limited to:
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