HIPs / EPC

Home Information Packs

Home Information Packs (HIPs) are now compulsory for anyone selling their property in the UK. The packs contain useful information for potential buyers: copies of title deeds, any recent planning permission or building consent given on the property, a local area search and an energy performance certificate.
HIP documents come under two headings: Compulsory (“Required”) – these must be provided by the seller; and Optional (“Authorised”) – these are recommended, as they can help to facilitate the sale of the property.  

Compulsory documents required:
  Energy performance certificate
  Index of contents
  Evidence of title
  Sale statement
  Local authority searches
  Water and drainage search report

Optional documents:
  Home condition report
  Home use and home contents forms

In order to compile the full pack you will need to engage an energy assessor plus a solicitor or conveyancer. Alternatively, our team can co-ordinate all the relevant parties on your behalf. We are fully equipped to provide you with all the information and support you need. If you would like to talk about how HIPs will affect you or for a free market appraisal please call us on 01954 787154.

For lots more helpful advice on selling your home and moving get a copy of our home moving guide or get in touch. Just give us a call on 01954 787154 or email us

EPCs From October 1st 2008

From 1 October 2008, if you are renting out your property, you will need to provide a certificate to any prospective tenant. There is no need to obtain a Energy Performance Certificate for an existing tenancy. Once obtained, a certificate remains valid for up to 10 years. Owners of rented property are encouraged to obtain Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) before this deadline.

If a valid Energy Performance Certificate still exists when changing tenants no new certificate is required. This applies to both private and social sector landlords and tenants