Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When do the Home Information Packs come into effect?
1st August 2007.
Q: Does my property require a Home Information Pack?
All properties marketed from 14th December 2007 require a Home Information Pack.
Q: My property was on the market before 14 December 2006, do I still need a HIP?
If your property is 2 bedroom or under and you marketed prior to 14th December then you do not need a HIP. For 3 bedroom properties if you marketed prior to 10th September you do not need a HIP and for 4 bedroom and over if you marketed prior to 1st August you do not need a HIP.
Q: I'm selling my house privately - do I need a Home Information Pack?
If you are marketing your property, even if it's just by putting a 'For Sale' sign in the window, you need a Home Information Pack. If you agree a sale privately, without marketing, you do not need a Home Information Pack.
Q: How long is a Home Information Pack valid for?
Some documents can be no more than three months old when marketing starts, but there is no obligation to update Home Information Packs as long as the property remains on the market.
No component of the Home Information Pack should be more than 12 months old on the day the property goes on sale.
Q: Who pays for the Home Information Pack?
Some agents will include the cost of the Home Information Pack in their fees or offer you a deferred payment option; you can also pay up front. However it is important to note that you will only own the Pack when you have paid for it yourself.
Q: What can I expect to see in my Home Information Pack?
Click here to see - what is in a HIP.
Q: What should I do if searches or leasehold documents are still needed?
If any documents are still outstanding towards the end of the 28-day period, you may wish to look into the delay by contacting the Pack provider.
Q: Should I put a Home Condition Report in the Home Information Pack?
A Home Condition Report could help you sell your property more quickly if it shows that it is in good condition, or if it highlights any problems straight away for potential buyers it can avoid nasty surprises later in the process.
Q: How long does a Home Information Pack last?
Until the home is sold. If the home is taken off the market for less than a year and then re-marketed, the same Home Information Pack may be used.
Q: Do I have to put electrical certificates in my Home Information Pack?
Electrical certificates (past or present) are not a required component of the Home Information Pack, but can be included if the Seller has them.
Q: I've lost guarantees of work I have had done - what do I do?
Don't worry - guarantees aren't a required component of the Home Information Pack, but can be included if you have them.
Q: Where do I get my HIP?
YourHipSolutions, Estate Agents and Solicitors can provide you with a HIP.
