HIPs hit by housing market slowdown

The introduction of Home Information Packs (HIPs) has been delayed by the government again – now because of the slowdown in the housing market.

The government has put off the requirement for homeowners to compile one of the packs before they market their home until the end of the year.

Home sellers are currently required to order a pack before putting their home on the market, but they do not have to complete it.

The packs contain details such as title deeds, an energy performance certificate (EPC) and land searches.

They have been hit by delays for the past 18 months as building experts have warned of a shortage of EPC assessors would derail the plans.

But the Department of Communities and Local Government said it was working with Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, National Association of Estate Agents and the Law Society to develop a new set of standards for property professionals.

It will also work with the property industry to ensure the packs are available to potential buyers as soon as the EPC is produced.

Housing minister Caroline Flint said: “We want to do more to improve the HIP and the home buying and selling process for consumers. Developing a new set of standards for industry is an important next set in further ensuring all consumers get the highest quality of service when buying or selling a home.”