Home Information Packs
The SP Law Home Information Packs (HIPs)
SP Law now the HIP supplier of choice for a number of local estate agents due to the simplicity of the process, quick turnaround time and low cost.
We believe that as Solicitors, we are ideally qualified to ensure that all the relevant and necessary legal title documents are included in the HIP. This part of the process can be particularly complex if the property is either leasehold or unregistered. Our specialist in house knowledge enables us to ensure that such documents relating to title are obtained and included in the HIP at the very outset. This can ultimately reduce delays during the subsequent conveyancing transaction.
SP Law is a member of HM Land Registry Direct which allows us to download deeds and plans instantaneously, thereby expediting the process.
We are also pleased to notify you that our search provider is the Property Search Group (PSG), based in Moulton Park. PSG have an unrivalled local reputation for compiling thorough searches which ultimately reduce the risk of delay during the enquiries stage of the conveyancing process.
In our continuing efforts to support local business, we have appointed EPC-Network as our Domestic Energy Assessors (http://www.epc-network.co.uk).
We have invested in a software application which allows us to compile the various elements of the HIP into a single coherent Adobe Acrobat PDF file. The HIP can also be branded if necessary.
If you would like SP Law to produce your HIP, please call us on 01604 638 905.
The Law
The production of HIPs is governed by the Home Information Pack Regulations 2007 (please see link below).
When do I need a HIP?
Since the 14th December 2007 every home put on the open property market must have a HIP. Failure to provide a HIP will result in a penalty.
When don’t I need a HIP?
There are a number of circumstances in which a HIP is not required but the ones most commonly encountered are where the property:-
• has not been marketed e.g. a private sale to a family member, neighbour or friend.
• is primarily non-residential or is used for seasonal or holiday accommodation.
• is not being sold with complete vacant possession e.g. it has a sitting tenant.
• is part of a mixed sale e.g. flat with a shop; farmhouse with a farm etc
• is unsafe and unsuitable for occupation or is due to be demolished.
What are the penalties for failing to comply?
The penalty charge is £200 but can be repeated if the breach recurs. Local Weights and Measures Authorities have primary responsibility for enforcement of the Regulations but the Office of Fair Trading also plays a role.
What needs to be in a HIP?
The HIP must contain the following compulsory documents:-
Home Information Pack Index
Simply sets out what the pack contains.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
A Domestic Energy Assessor will visit your property in order to prepare a report. Your home\'s performance will be rated in terms of the energy use per square metre of floor area, energy efficiency based on fuel costs and environmental impact based on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. To view a sample EPC, please click here.
Sale Statement
Confirms whether the property is a freehold house or a leasehold flat; the name of the seller and the capacity in which they are selling; and whether the property is being sold vacant.
Evidence of Title
If the property is registered with HM Land Registry, then an Official Copy of the Register of Entries & Filed Plan will be obtained.
If the property is unregistered, the original deeds will be required.
If your property is leasehold additional documents and information will be required.
Documents
1. Original Lease.
2. Rules or regulations made by the landlord for managing the property.
3. Service charge Accounts for the last 3 years.
4. Invoice(s) for the last 12 months detailing:-
a) service charges;
b) ground rent; and
c) cost of buildings & public liability insurance.
Information
5. Is the flat part of a purpose built block, converted house or conversion of commercial premises?
6. Name and address of current landlord.
7. Name and address of management company (if any) or other persons who manage the property.
8. Details of any proposed amendments to the lease or management regulations (see ‘1’ above).
9. If there are there any current or proposed works to the property or building in which it is situated, please provide a summary of:-
a) such works or agreements in relation to which a relevant contribution (or part thereof) has not been paid by the first point of marketing;
b) the total or estimated total cost of such works or agreements;
c) the expected remaining relevant contribution of a lessee (i.e. tenant) of the property;
d) the date or estimated date that such works or agreements will be concluded; and
e) the date or estimated date that the remaining relevant contribution will be required of a lessee of the property.
Local Authority Search and a Drainage & Water Search
A local authority search report contains information held by the local council which is relevant to your property and its environs e.g. are there any outstanding planning or building regulations notices? Is the road maintained by the council? Are there any new nearby road or traffic schemes proposed? Is the property within a conservation area?
The drainage and water search report contains information held by the local water authority which is relevant to your property e.g. is the property connected to a mains water supply? Does foul and surface water drain to a public sewer? Where are the drains and water pipes located?
Property Information Questionnaire
This is the most recent addition to the required documents. It is a simple questionnaire to be completed by the seller.
Useful Links
Home Information Pack Website for Consumers
http://www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk/consumer/
Essential Information for Buyers
http://www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk/consumer/45_Essentialinfobuyer.html
Home Information Pack Regulations 2007
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2007/uksi_20070992_en_1
EPC-Network (Domestic Energy Assessors)
http://www.epc-network.co.uk
Residential Conveyancing