Market slowdown 'not cause by Hips'

It is wrong to suggest that Home information Packs (Hips) are responsible for the slowdown of the housing market, an industry website has claimed.

Hip-consultant.co.uk has said that it is a "far-fetched concept" and a "myth" that the introduction of Hips has had a detrimental effect on the property market.

"How can Hip documentation, which commonly costs £250-£400 and provides useful required and essential information in the property buying and selling process, cause such a slowdown in the UK property market?," the site questions.

Every property that is put on the market - irrespective of size - now must have a Hip.

Self builders may not be fazed by the prospect of Hips as the plot they buy will not require one.

Furthermore, if they come to sell their self build home, the Hip may not pose as many problems as they can develop the dwelling with sustainable materials and ensure that it is as energy effect efficient as possible.