HOME INFORMATION PACKS (HIPs)

HIPS were introduced in 2007 and now are mandatory for all properties.

Anyone wishing to sell a property (or let it out) will need to have commissioned a HIP (albeit it does not need to be available) before marketing their property.

Here at Metcalfes we will be providing HIPs on behalf of Clients and Agents. We aim to provide a completed HIP within 10 working days so as to ensure prompt compliance and hopefully leading to early exchange of contracts.

Amongst other things the HIP must include, a Local Search and Water and Drainage Search, the title of the property (including the Lease if relevant), and an Energy Performance Certificate. There are also a number of documents that are voluntary including a Home Condition Report. We have contacts with local surveyors to provide the Energy Performance Certificate.

The cost of the HIP will vary very slightly, depending what is required for each specific property.

If our clients instruct us to prepare a HIP and to carry out the normal sale conveyancing work then we do not charge for collating the HIP – we only charge for the costs we have to pay for the component parts.

We also provide a service for potential buyers. We can advise you on the content of the HIP to assist a buyer in making an informed decision. If we are instructed to act on a purchase there will be no charge for this initial advice.

Please do not hesitate to contact Julia Smart for an initial consultaion on 0117 929 0451 or email hips@metcalfes.co.uk