Home Information Packs - New Requirements

25/02/2009 by bill.

FRom 6th April 2009 Home Information Packs - or HIPs - will be required to include a Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ).

The PIQ provides buyers with a checklist of simple information about a property to help them decide whether to view a property or to make an offer.

It includes:

* gas and electricity safety information
* flood risk information
* details of previous structural damage
* information about parking arrangements
* a leasehold summary

From 6 April 2009, the ‘responsible person’ (in most cases, the estate agent) won’t be allowed to market your property unless the HIP is available. You’ll need to make arrangements to have a HIP compiled (including paying for it) along with other preparations for selling your home. However, if there’s a delay in getting certain documents, like the local searches, these can be added after your house is put on the market.

If you need to get a HIP, you can choose any of the following options:

* get an estate agent to do it
* use a solicitor
* use a specialist HIP provider
* compile it yourself

For further information about the new HIP requirements and how to compile a HIP see DirectGov.

If you are looking to buy a home see moneyjungle.net for buying tips.

Posted in Home Information Packs, Selling a home, buying a home | Print | No Comments »