Home Information Packs

What's in a HIP

A Home Information Pack is a collection of information about a property which is provided by the seller or the seller's representative. The pack is intended to improve the home buying and selling process in England & Wales , currently subject to a 30% failure rate.

Under the current system, key information is not available to either buyers or sellers until a sale is agreed. This often results in costly issues arising later than necessary in the sale process. The government intends that by using a HIP, this information will be provided up front, potential buyers will be able to make an informed decision, preventing delays and misunderstandings later in the process.

The pack must contain:

• Terms of sale
• Evidence of title
• A property information form
• A fixtures and fittings form
• Planning consents, agreements and directions and building control certificates
• Warranties and guarantees for new properties and for any work carried out on the property
• Replies to standard searches
• An Energy Efficiency Certificate

HIPs for new build properties will not require a Home Condition Report if the property has an NHBC certificate or similar.

Additionally, leasehold properties will need to provide:

• A copy of the lease
• Recent service charge accounts and receipts
• Current and planned future works
• Buildings insurance policy details and payment receipts
• Regulations made by the landlord or management company
• Memorandum of articles of the landlord or management company

Other documents which may be included:

• A Home Condition Report (HCR)
• A summary or explanation of any pack document
• Information identifying the property including a description, photograph, map, plan or drawing of the property.

Hips for new build properties will not need a Home Condition Report if the property has an NHBC certificate or similar.