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The government are introducing HIPs in an attempt to improve the process of buying and selling property in England and Wales and to improve the environment through energy awareness. A Home Information Pack will include essential information about a property which was previously not made available to the buyer until later in the process. It will also include an Energy Performance Certificate, rating each property, and highlighting ways to save energy. By making this information available upfront, the intention is to speed up the process of buying and selling property. A Home Condition Report (similar to a survey) can be included as an optional extra, as can guarantees and warranties. HIPs have been tested extensively before the decision to roll out nationally was taken. What does a HIP include?The Pack must contain at least the following:
The following documents are also compulsory, but can be added to the Pack later if there are delays in obtaining them:
Additional documents which can be included are:
Are there any properties that don't need a HIP?Initially, properties already on the market before August 1st 2007 won't need a HIP, so there's a good incentive to get your property advertised today! Packs for smaller properties will be phased in over time scale to be announced by the Government, so eventually HIPs will be compulsory for all properties. There are also a number of cases where a HIP will not be required at all.
How will Smart Step be able to help me with HIPs?Smart Step is one of Bradford only Estate Agents and who are also HIP providers. We will find the best solution for our customers and will be offering the packs FREE OF CHARGE for all people advertising their property through us. The HIP must be ordered at the same time as your house is placed on the market. Once your HIP is ordered your property can goes live on the market (i.e. you will not have to wait for the HIP to be complete). It will typically take 7 working days to prepare, but, to meet legal requirements, must be complete within 28 days of order. Your property’s HIP will be kept at your local Smart Step office for potential buyers to look at. |
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