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ContractorsHIP's - Document Information

A Home Information Pack Index

This is similar to a checklist and can be used by sellers, buyers, estate agents and enforcement agencies. The index is an overview as to what documents are included in the HIP. The Index also includes details of special circumstances concerning the pack as well as reasons why information may be included or excluded from the pack.

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

The certificates are commissioned by the seller (or their agent) from an accredited Energy Assessor, who visits the property to collect the relevant data and creates the certificate. This data includes the date, construction and location of the house and relevant fittings (heating systems, insulation or double glazing, for example).

An Energy Performance Certificate will give home buyers and sellers A to G ratings for their home's energy efficiency. It is designed to help homeowners reduce carbon emissions and fuel bills. A is the most energy efficient property and G is the least. Properties rated A should therefore have the lowest fuel bills.

Factors that may affect how your property is rated, include the depth of loft insulation, heating and hot water systems and whether or not the property has double glazing.

A grade homes should have less carbon emission and therefore help protect the environment. Sellers of new properties will be asked to predict how energy efficient the new properties will be.

Sale Statement

The Sale statement provides basic information about a site. This includes the name of the seller and the address of the property being sold. Other details included, show whether or not the property is being sold in vacant possession and whether or not the property is registered or unregistered. Freehold, leasehold or commonhold information is also included.

Evidence of Title

This document provides evidence that the person selling the property is the owner and therefore legally entitled to sell it. If the property is registered, additional documents must be included in the HIP. These additional documents can be requested from the land registry and provide an updated record regarding land ownership. These additional documents include official copies of the property title plan as well as the individual register. The individual register is made up of property and proprietorship registers and often a charges register.

Standard Searches

These include local land charges, the provision of water and drainage services to the property as well as other records held by local authorities on matters of interest. These searches can be carried out by the local authority or personal search companies. As regards the provision of drains and water, the local water company may conduct the search or a personal search company may be used. The important thing to remember is that the search must comply with HIP regulations. A search must also be conducted on other records held by local authorities. Again a local authority or a personal search company can be used for this. This search concerns matters of interest such as planning decisions and building proposals.

Home Condition Report (HCR)

This is an important part of the pack, but is not mandatory at this stage. There is an increasing call for this to be made a mandatory part of HIPS as it is felt that it will reduce the chances of transactions falling through and reduce the period of uncertainty. Government research suggests that 43% of failed transactions are as a result of problems revealed by a valuation inspector or condition survey, after terms have been agreed.

This HCR report describes the physical condition of the property and it covers matters of importance to a buyer - the general condition of the property taking account of its age and any defects or other matters requiring attention. The Home Condition Report also allows the seller the opportunity to carry out repair work prior to a sale. It also allows a buyer the opportunity to see exactly what needs to be repaired. The reports have obvious advantages to lenders, who might not need to repeat expensive on-site inspections at the buyer's expense and this in turn could speed up the whole transaction.

Legal Summary

This doesn't take away the need for clients to take legal advice. However, this document provides a summary of those points that could be considered quite difficult to understand. Therefore, it is extremely helpful to have one.

Home Use/Contents Form

Information important to both sellers and buyers, concerning a full range of property matters. This includes services, notices, planning permission and other factors. This document also allows sellers a convenient way of communicating which fixtures and fittings they intend to include in the sale of the property.

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