Frequently Asked Questions
Do all properties need a HIP?
Most standard properties need a HIP but there are some exceptions, You do not need a Home Information Pack for:- Properties where there is no marketing, for example if you are selling to a member of your family
- Non-residential properties
- Properties limited by law to use as holiday accommodation or occupation for less than 11 months per year
- Mixed sales, for example a shop with flat
- Sales of portfolios of properties, for example selling two properties together
- Properties not being sold with completely vacant possession, for example with a sitting tenant
- Unsafe properties and properties due to be demolished
- Properties sold through the 'Right to Buy', 'Right to Acquire' and 'HomeBuy' home ownership schemes
Why do you need a HIP?
A HIP is a set of documents that provides the buyer with key information on the property and must be provided by the seller or the seller's agent. It is a legal requirement to have a HIP and you can't market your property without one. The HIP lets buyers see important information about the property at the start of the process, free of charge. This means there is less chance of buyers becoming aware of any surprises at the end of the process. The HIP can help reduce delays and extra expense to the buyer and seller.What does a HIP contain?
The HIP is made up of required (compulsory) and authorised (optional) items.Compulsory documents:
The following documents must be included in your HIP:Freehold properties
- Home Information Pack Index
- Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ)
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) or Predicted Energy Assessment (PEA)
- Sustainability information (required for newly built homes)
- Sale statement
- Evidence of title
- Standard searches (local authority and drainage and water)
Leasehold properties
- All the compulsory documents above
- A copy of the lease
Commonhold properties
- All the compulsory documents above
- Official copy of the individual register and title plan for the common parts
- Commonhold community statement referred to in the register.
Optional documents:
Other documents can be included within your HIP, but these are optional. If they are included, it could help to speed up the sale and ensure that the process goes more smoothly. These include:- Home Condition Report
- Legal summary
- Home use/contents form
- Other documents like specialist searches (for example, a mining search in a mining area)