Buyers' frequently asked questions

When should I expect to receive a Home Information Pack/Energy Performance Certificate for a property I am interested in buying/am in the process of buying?
If a property which falls within the scope of the scheme is first placed on the market during the temporary period during which marketing is allowed to start without a HIP, then the HIP must be commissioned and paid for (or arrangement for payment made) with the expectation that the documents will arrive within 28 days before marketing can begin. During this period, which ends on 31 December 2008, the EPC must be provided as soon as possible and before exchange of contracts at the latest.
 
If a property which falls within the scope of the scheme is first marketed from 1 January 2009 onwards, a HIP including the EPC should be available from the time it is first placed on the market.

What can I do if a HIP/EPC isn't provided?
Except in relation to properties first placed on the market during the temporary period, which ends on 31 December 2008, which are being marketed without Packs, potential buyers have a right to a copy of the Pack and this should be provided within 14 days of request. Sellers are entitled to make a reasonable charge to cover copying and postage costs and may also refuse to provide a copy in certain limited cases. These are where the seller believes that the person making the request:

• could not afford the property;
• is not really interested in buying the property
• is not a person to whom the seller would wish to sell the property (but this does not allow them to unlawfully discriminate against someone).

If you believe that you are being denied a copy of the pack unlawfully, local authority trading standards officers are responsible for enforcement of these duties.

How much does a Home Information Pack cost?
Copies of Packs are free to buyers, although a reasonable charge may be made for copying and postage.

What can I expect to see in my Pack?
The following documents are compulsory and must be included in a Pack :

• Home Information Pack Index
• Energy Performance Certificate
• Sale statement
• Standard searches
• Evidence of title

Additional information for leasehold and commonhold sales, where appropriate.

You can also include other documents such as a Home Condition Report, an environmental or flood risk search and other information that would be of interest to a potential buyer as defined in the regulations. Take a look at What will a Pack look like?

Who compiles HIPs?
Sellers can hire estate agents, solicitors, separate pack providers, or do it themselves.

Are HIPs required across the UK?
No - only in England and Wales.

Who pays for the Pack?
The seller is responsible for the cost of a Home Information Pack. The cost of the Pack is down to the market, but sellers will often be able to defer costs until late in the sale. Some providers may offer free packs, or a no-sale, no-fee arrangement.