Home Information Packs
are on a no-move
no-fee basis"
David Parton, Partner
Although packs are no longer required before a property is placed on the market, there remain many thousands of packs in circulation prepared for properties which came to market before the suspension date.
Home Information Packs were designed to speed up the home buying process, making information available up front to help inform a buyer before their commitment to purchase. However, ever since their introduction in August 2007 the property industry dismissed their benefit. The packs were to contain a prescribed set of documents:
- Property Information Questionnaire
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Sale Statement
- evidence of seller's title
- local authority search records
- drainage and water search records
- a copy of the lease if the property is leasehold
As a result of the suspension of packs on 20 May the requirement for Sellers to pay to order a pack before they place the property on the market has been removed.
The only document which has survived as part of the seller's marketing process is the Energy Performance Certificate which must be provided within 28 days of a property coming to market. This is required under EU law.
The remainder of documents that have been in HIPs will continue to be required during the process. Title information will be provided by the Seller's conveyancer as part of the contract paperwork. The Buyer's conveyancer will then select which searches they consider to be prudent based upon their review of the title.
If the failure of HIPs has proven one thing, it is that reviewing the legal paperwork to buy and sell property remains a complex process requiring appropriately qualified professionals. By instructing Access Legal from Shoosmiths in your property transaction you will benefit from over 150 years of conveyancing experience.
If you have any questions about Home Information Packs, or for a free, no obligation quote and general help and advice on buying or selling a house, give us a call on 03700 86 86 86 or contact us online.
