DCLG Update on HIPs
29 January 2007
A further consultation has been issued by the Department for Communities and Local Government which seeks views in relation to the home buying and selling process.
The consultation document sets out the role of HIPs in the wider reform of the home buying and selling process, as well as detailing how the DCLG intends to ensure the smooth introduction of HIPs on 1 June and how they will take account of information from the area trials.
Issues addressed within the consultation include:
- HIPs including Energy Performance Certificates and searches from 1 June
- Reforms to searches
- Home Condition Reports
- E-conveyancing
- Consumer Redress
- Future market-led developments
- Dry Run and Area Trials
- Transitional measures to ensure the smooth itroduction from June
Within the consultation government is proposing:
- EPCs to be the first document in the Home Information Pack when launched on 1 June and to be attached to the estate agent's particulars
- Changes to increase the rate of return for local searches which can take more than 4 weeks in some areas
- New guidance to be issued to local authorities on providing prompt access to all search information
- For an initial transitional period, sellers will be able to market their home as soon as an EPC and key legal documents are provided
- Flood and ground stability searches will be required in packs as soon as systems are available
- The fines for estate agents who fail to produce Home Information Packs could be raised from £200 to £500 if they fail to meet their commitments.
