HIPs are now required for the sale of all residential properties (with a number of exceptions).  Early preparation is key to being able to market your property.

We are able to produce  a HIP efficiently and cheaply.

The main question facing sellers initially is whether the HIP is to be regarded as just a marketing pack or additionally as a legal pack which helps the speed of the conveyancing process.

Sellers will from the 6th April 2009 only be able to put their property on the market if a compliant HIP is already in place (if there is a delay, after 28 days then generally speaking marketing can occur with the HIP to be finalised when possible).

As lawyers, we can assist you and advise you generally on the content and timing of a required HIP and the advantages of the HIP actually meaning something to the buyer’s conveyancers.

A HIP will generally contain:-

  • An index and sale statement;
  • Title information;
  • Local, drainage and water searches;
  • An Energy Performance Certificate;
  • A Property Information Questionnaire. 

We have been preparing HIPs since 1st August 2007 when the first phase of the regulations applied.

General questions are:  Do you provide

  • an official or personal local search result?
  • a value added HIP containing supplementary and allowable information?
  • a home condition report: is this to your advantage as a seller?

If we are handling your sale then the cost of our basic HIP service can start from as little as £260.00 (including VAT) for freehold properties.  Full details are available on request.  Contact Rupert Morton-Curtis.