HIPs: What to do as a seller
As of August 2007, if you are considering putting your home on the market you’ll first need to familiarise yourself with home information packs (HIPs).
The packs contain key information that allows any potential buyer to make an informed decision about your property.
So, how do you go about putting together a home information pack? Find out with our useful hints and tips below.
Contents
Sellers can volunteer additional information about their property, but as a minimum the packs must contain the following documentation:
• A sale statement
• Standard searches
• Evidence of title
• Energy performance certificate
An index of the pack's contents is also required.
Energy performance certificate
The energy performance certificate indicates how efficient your property is in terms of its energy consumption. Homes are rated on a sliding scale from A to G, with A-grade properties the most efficient. These homes should also have the lowest fuel bills.
The certificate also assesses your property’s impact on the environment via carbon emissions, and includes recommendations on how it can be improved.
Certificates are obtained through an accredited Energy Assessor, who will visit your house and record the necessary data.
Compiling the pack
HIPs will typically be compiled by the party marketing the house - in most cases an estate agent. However, you can instead ask your solicitor to do it, use a specialist pack provider or compile it yourself.
To make your own pack, you’ll need to firstly arrange for the visit of an energy assessor. Don’t allow opportunistic cold-callers to carry out the assessment – arrange it through a recognised company.
You’ll also need to visit the Land Registry to attain your evidence of title, and speak to local authorities regarding the necessary searches. If you wish to provide a Home Condition Report (not a compulsory element of the pack) you will need to contact an accredited Home Inspector.
Using companies listed with the Property Codes of Compliance Board (http://propertycodes.org.uk/) should give you more peace of mind.
HIP costs
You may not charge potential buyers for home information packs, but you can ask that they cover your printing costs and delivery charges.
Useful links
www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk
www.hipassociation.co.uk
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