Home Information Packs or HIPs - what are they and do I need one?

When selling your property you will need a Home Information Pack (HIP). HIP's were introduced in 2007 in an attempt by the government to make the home buying and selling process more transparent, more certain, consumer friendly and faster. The implementation was phased in and is now applicable to all existing and new build properties.

The HIP contains searches that were traditionally purchased by the buyers' solicitors and include a local authority search, a water & drainage search, evidence of title, a Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ), leases (if applicable) and an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

Before any estate agent can market your property a HIP needs to have been commissioned by the seller. Part of the HIP needs to be in place for marketing to begin and the remaining documents added within 28 days from instruction.

We have close ties with local companies that are able to provide a quick and efficient service at competitive rates and would be happy to pass their details on to you so that you can decide on who you are going to use.