Home Information Pack Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

For sellers

Who compiles the HIP ?
What documents are included in the HIP ?
Do I need a HIP if my property is a leasehold ?
What is an Energy Performance Certificate ?
Are there any circumstances when sellers do not need to produce a HIP ?
How long is a HIP valid for ?
What if I take my property off the market?
What will it cost to provide an HIP ?

For buyers

How much will a HIP cost the Buyer ?
How will the HIP benefit the Buyer ?
How can a Buyer obtain a HIP ?
What should the Buyer do with the HIP ?

For sellers

Who compiles the HIP?

If you are selling the property you are responsible for making sure that a HIP is available

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What documents are included in the HIP?

Every HIP must contain:

• An Index
• An Energy Performance Certificate (‘EPC’) or predicted energy assessment
• A Sale statement (summarising the terms of the sale)
• Standard searches, e.g. local land charges register, local enquiries, drainage and water searches
• Evidence of title

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Do I need a HIP if my property is leasehold?

Yes. You will need to provide:

• A copy of the lease
• Management regulations not mentioned in the lease and any proposed amendments
• Statements or summaries of service charges, ground rent or insurance claims made for the previous year
• The name and address of the current landlord and any managing agent
• Summary of any work being undertaken

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What is an Energy Performance Certificate?

This highlights how energy efficient a property is by rating it from A – G where A is the most energy efficient. The certificate will also offer advice on how to save energy and reduce fuel bills. This benefits sellers as it will identify cost effective improvements to reduce fuel bills and make the property a more attractive prospect.

We have an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor who will visit your property to obtain the relevant date, including the date, construction and location of the house, and relevant fittings, e.g. heating systems, double glazing etc.

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Are there any circumstances when sellers do not need to produce a HIP?

Yes. You will not need to provide a HIP in circumstances where:

• The property is not fit for human occupation
• It is due to be demolished
• It is to be sold without vacant possession
• It is non-residential
• It is used as holiday/seasonal occupation
• Mixed use – e.g. a shop and flat above, being sold as one lot
• Dual use – e.g. a property that can be used for residential and non-residential purposes at the same time, such as a guesthouse
• Part of a private sale (where the property is not marketed)
• Part of the sale of a property portfolio

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How long is a HIP valid for?

When the property is first put on the market, the searches and evidence of title cannot be over 3 months old. The EPC cannot be more than 1 year old when the property is first put on the market.

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What if I take my property off the market?

You can use the same pack if you decide to put your property back on the market as long as it is within a year of the property initially being placed on the market.

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What will it cost to provide an HIP ?

Our prices are very competitive and much lower than many other companies. Call us on 0800 716997 or email us.

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For buyers

How much will a HIP cost the Buyer?

A buyer can see the HIP for free, save for copying/posting charges.

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How will the HIP benefit the Buyer ?

Buyers will be able to make faster, informed decisions about the property they wish to purchase.

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How can a Buyer obtain a HIP ?

The estate agent must provide a copy of the HIP to the proposed buyer within 14 days of request.  The HIP can only be withheld if it is felt that the proposed buyer is not a genuine buyer or cannot afford the property/does not meet the seller’s criteria.

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What should the Buyer do with the HIP?

The Buyer should ask their solicitor to read through the HIP to check any legal issues and advise accordingly.

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