How do I provide a Pack?
A housing developer might choose to compile a Pack themselves (Note this link will open up a new browser in our consumer site), use a third-party organisation to compile one on their behalf or sell the properties through an estate agent.
If you choose to market the property through an estate agent, then the agent can arrange the Pack.
If you want to use a third party, you could consider approaching a solicitor, conveyancer or dedicated Pack provider. You might already have relationships with conveyancers or solicitors in the area, so you could contact them directly. If you want to use a dedicated Pack provider, you can find contact details through the Association of Home Information Pack Providers.
Protecting yourself
On 29 September 2006, the Search Code and HIP Code were introduced, delivering quality standards across both the property search industry and in Home Information Packs (HIPs).
If you are commissioning a HIP, you may wish to consider a company that is a member of the HIP Code. Alternatively, if you are commissioning searches or are compiling the Pack yourself, you may wish to consider a company that has signed up to the Search Code.
Here you can find a full list of organisations that have signed up to one or both of the codes at the Property Codes Compliance Board (PCCB). The PCCB has been established to maintain a register of firms committed to operating within these standards of practice and to independently monitor compliance with the Codes. The PCCB will also encourage organisations to sign up to the Codes to promote increased consumer protection.
Once you have a completed Pack, give a copy to the estate agent or show it to potential buyers when they request it. Once an offer has been accepted, make sure a copy of the Pack is sent to the buyer's solicitor.
If you're marketing the property yourself, you will also need to make sure that the property's energy-performance details are available as part of the particulars.
