Below you will find Frequently Asked Questions which may help clarify any queries that you have regarding our services.
- What is an EPC?
- What is a HIP?
- How long does an Energy Performance Certificate last?
- Which parts of the property will the assessor need access to?
- Who pays for the Pack?
- Who is responsible for producing a HIP?
- What does the Home Information Pack Contain?
- Will HIP's be subject to VAT?
- I've lost guarantees of work I have had done - what do I do?
- Are HIPs required across the UK?
- I'm selling my house privately - do I need a Home Information Pack?
- Why do I need an EPC or a HIP?
- Will I be fined if I don't produce a HIP?
What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document showing the Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact of a property, based on a survey/assessment. The EPC contains information to show current & potential ratings as well as information and recommendations on how to improve the rating to reduce energy bills and CO² Emissions.
What is a HIP?
A Home Information Pack (HIP) is a seller's pack of information required by law to be provided for residential sales in England & Wales. The HIP contains an EPC as well as other information including Title Deeds, Local Authority & Drainage Searches.
Which parts of the property will the assessor need access to?
Access will be needed to all rooms in the property plus the attic, plus access to boilers/heaters, gas and electric meters.
Who pays for the Pack?
The seller is responsible for the cost of a Home Information Pack. The cost of the Pack is down to market conditions, but sellers will often be able to defer costs until later in the sale.
Who is responsible for producing a HIP?
The vendor is responsible for producing a HIP only until they instruct an agent. From that point forward the agent is responsible.
What does the Home Information Pack Contain?
- HIP logo must be displayed on the first page of every document
- Index
- Sale statement
- Home Contents Form (Fixtures and fittings)
- Property information
- Home Condition Report AND/OR Warranty (new homes)
- Warranties
- Home Condition Reports completed on the property in the last 12 months
- Energy performance certificate
- Searches
- Local land charges register
- Records held by the Local Authority - local enquiries
- Drainage and water enquiries
- Leasehold information
I've lost guarantees of work I have had done - what do I do?
Don't worry - guarantees aren't a required component of the Pack, but can be included if you have them.
I'm selling my house privately - do I need a Home Information Pack?
If you are marketing your property, even if it's just by putting a ‘for sale’ sign in the window, you need a Pack. Sales where no marketing takes place (e.g. to a member of the family) won't need a HIP.
Why do I need an EPC or a HIP?
To meet the new EU directives it is now compulsory for all properties marketed for sale from 14th December 2007 in England and Wales to have a Home Information Pack.