HIPS

Introduction

A Home Information Pack (HIP) is required for most homes put on the market with vacant possession on or after 14 December 2007. There are a few exceptions, including mixed use properties (such as a flat and shop being sold together), portfolio sales or sales of properties with leases originally granted for less than 21 years.

Anyone marketing a home for sale in England and Wales - whether they are an estate agent or auctioneer, a housing developer or private individual - is responsible for ensuring that a HIP is in place and made available to potential buyers.

HIPs are designed to bring information upfront to increase certainty and inform buyers about a property before they incur costs. Informed choice by buyers at the start of the process will help reduce delays later on and reduce wasted time for sellers.