Home Information Packs - an overview
Introduction
A Home Information Pack (HIP) is required for most homes, put on the market with vacant possession on or after 14 December 2007. There are a few exceptions, including mixed-use properties (such as a flat and shop being sold together), portfolio sales, or sales of properties with leases originally granted for less than 21 years.
Anyone marketing a home for sale in England and Wales, whether they are an estate agent or auctioneer, housing developer or a private individual is responsible for ensuring that a HIP is in place and made available to potential buyers.
HIPs are designed to bring information upfront to increase certainty and inform buyers about a property before they incur costs. Informed choice by buyers at the start of the process will help reduce delays later on and reduce wasted time for sellers.
This guide outlines when a HIP is needed, who can produce one, how to provide the HIP and how the requirements are enforced. For information for specific types of business, see our section on Home Information Packs.
Subjects covered in this guide
- Introduction
- When a Home Information Pack is needed
- What a Home Information Pack contains
- Making the Home Information Pack available
- How to compile a Home Information Pack
- How Home Information Packs are enforced
