All Properties marketed for sale from 14 December 2007 in England and Wales will need a Home Information Pack (HIP), which includes a home energy rating.

Currently, any property that was already on the market on the relevant commencement date (i.e. 1 August 2007 for homes with four or more bedrooms; 10 September 2007 for those with three or more bedrooms and 14 December for all properties) does not need to have a HIP. At this stage no date has been set when all properties that were on the market prior to the relevant enforcement dates will be required to have a HIP.

The pack will contain, as a minimum, the following:

• An index of contents
• An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) - A report indicating the relative energy efficiency of the property on a scale of A-G similar to the ratings for new Fridge/Freezers. They will be prepared by a qualified Energy Assessor who will have to visit the property.
• A sale statement which summarises the terms of the sale
• Evidence of title documents that confirm that the seller is the owner and has good title to the Freehold or Leasehold of the property
• Local Land Searches together with Drainage & Water Searches.
  

For Leasehold properties, additional information such as a copy of the lease, management company information and receipts for Ground Rent/Service Charges will also be included.

Costs are estimated at around £300- £500, the variance depending on how large or small the property is. However, we can arrange a variety of payment options in order to alleviate any up front costs.

For more information please contact your local branch.