Home Information Packs - a guide for solicitors and licensed conveyancers
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, a 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 explains the responsibilities of solicitors and licensed conveyancers in relation to HIPs. It also explains what happens when buyers or potential buyers make a complaint about you that relates to HIPs. For general guidance on HIPs and information for other types of business, see our section on Home Information Packs.
Subjects covered in this guide
- Introduction
- What a Home Information Pack must contain
- Options for compiling Home Information Packs
- Making the Home Information Pack available
- How Home Information Pack-related complaints are processed
- The Legal Services Ombudsman
