Home Information Pack (HIP)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Home Information Pack (HIP)?

The Home Information Pack (HIP) is a set of documents relating to a property. Legally a residential property must have a HIP PRIOR to marketing.

What documents are in a HIP?

1. Index of the documents in the HIP
2. Sale Statement (basic information about the property)
3. Evidence of Title
4. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
5. Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ)
6. Standard searches (local authority, water & drainage searches)
7. A copy of the lease (leasehold properties only)

How do I obtain a HIP?

HIP’s are available from specialist companies.  When you instruct Paul Wallace to sell your property, we will organise the HIP for you.

What are the benefits of a Paul Wallace HIP?

Simplicity!  We will organise your HIP for you, once complete, the HIP is yours to keep. You do not need to use a particular conveyancing company or sign a sole agency agreement.

Your HIP will be fully compliant with the PCCB HIP Code, which means that all the required documents will be included and acceptable to solicitors, giving you peace of mind.

Do I have to use Paul Wallace for my HIP?

No. You are free to arrange your own HIP, however, we would recommend that you use a supplier, who is an accredited member of the PCCB HIP Code.

What if I already have a HIP for my property?

HIP’s are transferrable as long as your property stays on the market.  You would need to provide us with a copy of your HIP, preferably via email. This must be received before the marketing of your property can commence.  NOTE:  If you remove your property for a period of time, you may need a new HIP before re-commencing marketing – we will advise you if this is the case.

Do all properties need a HIP?

Not all.  There are some exceptions; however, the majority of properties will require a HIP.  For more information, please ask our staff, or visit the government website www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk

What is the Property Codes Compliance Board (PCCB) HIP Code?

The PCCB maintains a register of firms committed to operating within their standards of practice and to independently monitor compliance with the code. The main aim of the PCCB HIP Code is to ensure quality standards for buyers, sellers, estate agents and conveyancers who rely on the information included within a HIP.

Our HIP provider is a member of this code, so you can rest assured that all information provided complies with all their regulations.

What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

The EPC is carried out by a Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) and provides an energy efficiency rating for a property.  'A', being the most energy efficient to 'G', the least energy efficient. It will also show the building's environmental impact by indicating its carbon dioxide emissions.

What is the Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ)?

The PIQ is a checklist of simple information about a property aimed at helping the buyer to make an informed decision. A variety of information is required, including gas and electrical safety, flood risk, details of previous structural damage and information about council tax and parking arrangements. It is the responsibility of the seller to complete this form and to provide accurate information.

What happens next?

Once you have instructed Paul Wallace the following must be completed before we are able to market your property: