HIPS
Home Information Packs (HIPs) – all you need to know
Frequently Asked Questions about HIPs
What is a Home Information Pack (HIP)?
A Home Information Pack (HIP) is a collection of documents relating to a property. It is a legal requirement to have a HIP prior to marketing a residential property for sale.
What does a HIP contain?
- An Index of information contained within the pack.
- A Sale Statement containing basic information about the property.
- Evidence of Title and a Title Plan.
- An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
- A Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ).
- Standard searches (local authority, water & drainage searches).
- A copy of the lease (for leasehold properties only).
(Only documents 1-5 must be obtained before your property can be marketed. Documents 6 & 7 must then be added within 28 days).
How do I get a HIP?
If you instruct Michael Hodgson to sell your property, we can organise the HIP for you.
What if I already own a valid HIP?
We will need you to send a copy to our HIP department, preferably via email to hips@michaelhodgson.co.uk. We must be in receipt of your HIP before the marketing of your property can commence.
Do all properties need a HIP?
The majority of properties will require a HIP, however there are a small number of exceptions. For more information visit the government website www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk
What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
An EPC is carried out by a Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) and provides an energy efficiency rating for a property from ‘A’, representing the most energy efficient to ‘G’, representing the least energy efficient. It will also show the building’s environmental impact by indicating its carbon dioxide emissions.
What is a Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ)?
The PIQ is a checklist of simple information about a property aimed at helping the buyer to make an informed decision. A variety of information is required, including gas and electrical safety, flood risk, details of previous structural damage and information about council tax and parking arrangements.
It is the responsibility of the seller to complete this form and to provide accurate information.
