Home Infomation Packs are a Legal Requirement in England and Wales

and a Home Report is required for Scotland

From 6th April 2009 the majority of a Home Information Pack (HIP) will need to be in place prior to marketing a property for sale.

A new document called a Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ) will also need to be included within the HIP before any marketing can begin. More details information can be seen HERE

Why you need a HIP

It is a legal requirement to have a HIP and you can't market your property without one. The HIP lets buyers see important information on the property at the start of the process, free of charge.

This means there's less chance of buyers becoming aware of any surprises at the end of the process. The HIP can help reduce delays and extra expense to the buyer and seller.

You don’t need a HIP for:

• properties where there is no marketing, for example if you are selling to a member of your family
• non-residential properties
• properties limited by law to use as holiday accommodation or occupation for less than 11 months per year
• mixed sales, for example a shop with flat
• properties not being sold with completely vacant possession, for example with a sitting tenant
• unsafe properties and properties due to be demolished
• properties sold through the ‘Right to Buy’, ‘Right to Acquire’ and ‘Social HomeBuy’ home ownership schemes

Where can I get one?

Many estate agents will offer to provide HIPs but they may try to tie you into a long term agency agreement as a condition. or you can get one from us.