Home information packs ''a force for good''

Home information packs (Hips) have been credited with helping first-time buyers although they could be even better, according to one property expert.

Hips are a government initiative whereby selling agents or home owners have to provide key information to prospective purchasers at the very start of their interest in a home.

The packs contain information such as terms of sale, copies of planning or building regulation consents and an energy performance certificate.

Home conditions reports are also included on a voluntary basis.

Paul Holmes, from Firstrung which provides help to first-time buyers, said the Hips were important because they got the UK in line with Europe but that they were misinterpreted by the UK press.

He said: "It was about energy certification and building standards [in the press], as opposed to being a genuine product that could aid the buying process."

Hips will be compulsory from June 2007 for all home owners in England and Wales.


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