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The Home Information Packs (also known as the HIP) are compulsory for most homes on the market in England and Wales. From April 6th 2009, you’ll be able to get a copy of a Home Information Pack (HIP) for any property you are interested in as soon as it comes on to the market.
HIP now contain a new Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ). This contains useful information on structural changes, damage, flood risk, gas and electrical safety, parking arrangements and, for leasehold properties, additional information such as the current service charge.
For freehold properties require the following information to be included in the HIP
- Home Information Pack Index
- the new Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ), from 6 April 2009
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) or Predicted Energy Assessment (PEA)
- sustainability information (required for newly built homes)
- sale statement
- evidence of title
- standard searches (local authority and drainage and water)
For leasehold properties the following information is required to be included in the HIP
- Home Information Pack Index
- the new Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ), from 6 April 2009
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) or Predicted Energy Assessment (PEA)
- sustainability information (required for newly built homes)
- sale statement
- evidence of title
- standard searches (local authority and drainage and water)
- a copy of the lease
The HIPs should ensure that your common questions are answered at the beginning of the process and before you have to spend any money. They are designed to ensure that you avoid any unpleasant surprises later on in the purchase process.
The HIP can help you make a better decision about the properties you are interested in. In theory it should make the home buying process more transparent. As a buyer you can get a copy of the HIP free on any property you’re interested in. You may have to pay a charge to cover photocopying and postage costs).
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