A Home Information Pack (HIP) is the file of documents that you need to have before you can sell your property. It contains the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) which must be produced by a qualified and accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA), various legal documents and, if the seller wishes, a Home Condition Report (HCR).
Until 31 May 2008, you can place your property on the market as soon as you have taken steps (e.g. ordering your EPC) to compile the HIP.
From 1 June 2008, you must have the completed HIP before you place your property on the market.
Apart from the EPC and the Home Condition Report, the seller can obtain for themselves the legal documents and searches which are required. But it is a time-consuming business, so most sellers prefer to purchase a complete HIP pack from a provider. The provider is also fully insured which protects all parties if there should be any material errors in the HIP. It's worth paying a few pounds more for peace of mind. Most HIP providers charge around £300+VAT for a HIP including the EPC but excluding the Home Condition Report. Leasehold properties require extra documents and may cost more.
Energenius can now provide a HIP for around £270+VAT. We have researched the market very carefully to find the HIP provider that can provide the best legal services and with the best turnround times (usually 5 working days).
To order your HIP, please telephone 01635-573061 or e-mail: office@energenius.co.uk
