Home Information Packs (HIPs)

What is a Home Information Pack (HIP)?

A Home Information Pack (HIP) is a collection of documents relating to a property. It is a legal requirement to have a HIP prior to marketing a residential property for sale.

What does a HIP contain?

1) An Index of information contained within the pack
2) A Sale Statement containing basic information about the property
3) Evidence of Title and a Title Plan
4) An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
5) A Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ)
6) Standard searches (local authority, water & drainage searches)
7) A copy of the lease (for leasehold properties only)

(Only documents 1-5 must be obtained before your property can be marketed. Documents 6 & 7 must then be added within 28 days).

How do I get a HIP?

If you instruct Foxtons to sell your property, we can organise the HIP for you.

What are the benefits of a Foxtons HIP?

'A no strings attached policy' - once complete, the HIP is yours to keep. You do not need to use a particular conveyancing company or sign a sole agency agreement.

Peace of mind - 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.

Do I have to use Foxtons to obtain my HIP?

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

What if I already own a valid HIP?

We will need you to send a copy to our HIP department, preferably via email to hips@foxtons.co.uk. We must be in receipt of your HIP before the marketing of your property can commence.

Do all properties need a HIP?

The majority of properties will require a HIP, however there are a small number of exceptions. For more information visit the government website www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk

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

The PCCB is a regulatory body established to maintain 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 increase consumer protection for buyers, sellers, estate agents and conveyancers who rely on the information included within a HIP.

As our HIP provider is a member of this code, you can rest assured that all information provided is of the highest standard and is in compliance with all their regulations.

What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

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

What is a 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 Foxtons the following must be completed before we are able to market your property: