No Longer HIP

Emma Sidney explains that HIPs are no-longer required when selling a property but the Government has retained the use of Energy Performance Certificiates (EPCs).

On 20 May 2010 the Community Secretary, Eric Pickles and the Housing Minister, Grant Shapps, announced that they were suspending the obligation on home owners to provide a Home Information Pack (HIP) when selling their homes.

Many people in the property sector have been calling for an end to the HIPs system for some considerable time but the concept was clearly central to the last government but not to the new coalition. The reason for dealing with this quickly is, we understand, to avoid further uncertainty and to encourage the current housing market.

It is hoped that my removing the obligation to produce a Home Information Pack more people will be encouraged to put their properties onto the market and therefore reverse some of the problems which have existed in people being unwilling to put properties onto the market for sale.With less “up front” cost the government would hope to encourage future sales.

What has been retained however is the need for an Energy Performance Certificate (“EPC”) and sellers will therefore still be required to obtain one at an early stage of the process but unlike HIPs will not need to have received the EPC before marketing the property.

Accordingly to statements made by the Communities Secretary and the Housing Minister the coalition government is determined to reduce energy bills and tackle climate change through many means not least of which is by increasing energy efficiency in residential homes.

Geoffrey Leaver Solicitors LLP were able to assist their clients with the preparation of HIPs. They are also able to assist clients with requisitioning an EPC when they plan to market and sell their home.

If we can be of any help or assistance with the sale or purchase of your property please contact Emma Sidney either by email or by telephone on 01980 692769.