ALL residential properties must now be sold with a HIP in place

22 November 2007

The Government today announced the roll-out of Home Information Packs (HIPs) to all properties marketed for sale in England and Wales from 14 December 2007, whatever their size.

FROM THE OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT SITE:

Sixty per cent of the market is already covered by HIPs The Government has announced the rollout of HIPs and EPCs to the rest of the market from December 14 this year, as the criteria set out for roll out on 11 June have now been met.

House hunters will get detailed information about the energy efficiency of their home with a green rating of A-G, similar to consumer friendly fridge ratings, in an EPC.

The final stage of the roll out follows careful analysis of how HIPs and EPCs have been working in order to maintain their smooth introduction into the housing market.

The extension of HIPs to all properties will particularly benefit first time buyers through a reduction in their upfront costs by not having to pay for a pack, helping them in getting a foot on the housing ladder.

The packs are already beginning to bring benefits to consumers with average property search costs starting to fall with the new competition from HIPs – 85 local authorities have already reduced their charges by £30 on average.

Housing Minister Yvette Cooper said:
“HIPs and EPCs are already helping consumers to save hundreds of pounds off their fuel bills and are cutting search costs too. All home buyers will be able to benefit from energy efficiency advice, with those receiving low green ratings of ‘F’ and ‘G’ especially targeted for support and grants to make improvements to cut their costs and carbon emissions.”

* THIS SITE IS FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY *