HIPs to be governed by code

A new code is being brought in by the government so that people selling their homes known that their Home Information Pack (HIP) is coming from a reputable company.

HIPs are compulsory from June 1st and everyone who sells their home will have to provide them to would-be buyers.

The Association of HIP Providers is going to launch a code of practice so that all home vendors can be assured of the quality of the product they are buying from HIP providers.

Ben Wood, a partner at AllHip which will produce HIPs, said: "It will be a kitemark for the industry showing that HIP providers have adequate insurance and staff training; that complaints will be handled promptly and fairly and that the provider acts with integrity and within the law."

He added that HIPs providers will need to be insured because they contain surveys so professional indemnity cover will be needed as it is for traditional surveyors.

HIPs will contain an energy efficiency report as well as up-front information about the property.


© Adfero Ltd