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HIPs: compiling a Home Information Pack
You can use an estate agent, solicitor or HIP provider to compile a HIP or you can put one together yourself. As a seller, you can compile your own HIP as long as you get all the documents from the appropriate sources.
The process
You'll need to:
- understand which documents are compulsory and optional
- complete a Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ), from 6 April 2009
- arrange for a qualified accredited Domestic Energy Assessor or qualified certificated Home Inspector to do your Energy Performance Certificate
- go to the Land Registry for evidence of title and a copy of the lease, if required
- contact a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to arrange the searches, or get them direct from the appropriate local authority or a personal search company
Completing the Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ)
The Property Information Questionnaire provides buyers with a checklist of simple information about a property to help them decide whether to view a property or to make an offer.
It includes:
- gas and electricity safety information
- flood risk information
- details of previous structural damage
- information about parking arrangements
- a leasehold summary
You should complete the PIQ yourself and the answers you give should be truthful and accurate to the best of your knowledge. There are two types of questionnaire: one for newly built properties and another for all other types of property.
Finding a Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) or Home Inspector (HI)
To find a Domestic Energy Assessor, search your local telephone directory or internet business listings. You can also contact one of the accreditation or certification schemes who have details of their members.
Finding your local council or a personal search company
Local land searches are available from a personal search company or the local council in the area where the property is for sale. There may be a fee attached to this service.
Use the link below to find information about local land charges from the local council for the area.
If you decide to use a personal search company you should check to see if it complies with the Search Code. The Search Code provides you with protection by introducing standards across the search industry.
If there is a delay in obtaining a copy of the searches, they can be added into the Pack after marketing begins, as long as it is within 28 days of the property being marketed.
