Frequently Asked Questions
- Q. What is a HIP – Home Information Pack?
- Q. I am a First Time Buyer – Do I need a HIP?
- Q. When do the Home Information Packs come into effect?
- Q. Are HIPs required across the UK?
- Q. Who will prepare the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
- Q. Will the Home Inspector or Domestic Energy Assessor need access to my house?
- Q. Will There Be Any Mess Left?
- Q. Will the Home Inspector Carry Any Identification?
- Q. How long will the inspection take?
- Q. I have lost Guarantees for work carried out?
- Q. How Long Does It Take For the Home Information Pack To Be Completed?
- Q. How Do I Pay For The Home Information Pack?
- Q. Are Home Information Packs Mandatory?
Question List
What is a HIP – Home Information Pack?
A Home Information Pack or HIP contains important information about your property. As from the 1st August 2007 this information will be required by law before you will be able to market your property for sale.
I am a First Time Buyer – Do I need a HIP?
No – You only need to obtain a HIP when you are selling a property.
When do the Home Information Packs come into effect?
From the 1st August 2007 all 4 bedroomed or larger properties needed a HIP and as of the 10th Septemeber 2007 all 3 bedroomed properties needed a HIP. However if your property was on the market before the 1st August 2007 you do not need to obtain a HIP unless you haven’t sold it by 1st January 2008 and it remains on the market after that date.
Are HIPs required across the UK?
HIP's are only required in England and Wales.
Who will prepare the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
A Home Inspector or a Domestic Energy Assessor. We will arrange this on your behalf. Our staff will contact you and arrange a convenient time for the assessment and then prepare the EPC.
Will the Home Inspector or Domestic Energy Assessor need access to my house?
Yes – In order to complete your Energy Performance Certificate the Home Inspector or Domestic Energy Assessor will need access.
Will There Be Any Mess Left?
No – our HI's/DEA's are dedicated to doing a thorough professional job without causing you any hassle. Our Inspectors are all trained and will respect your property.
Will the Home Inspector Carry Any Identification?
Yes all of our Home Inspectors and Domestic Energy Assessors will carry photographic identification. Make sure they are asked to present this before giving access. If you have any concerns please contact us at Northern Property Information Limited on 0191 568 20 68 or email us at enquiries@npi-hips.com.
How long will the inspection take?
Normally between 30-45 minutes depending on the size of your property.
I have lost Guarantees for work carried out?
Don’t worry. Guarantees are not compulsory to be included in the HIP but if you do any have any it may speed up your sale.
How Long Does It Take For the Home Information Pack To Be Completed?
We aim to complete the pack within 10-12 working days.
How Do I Pay For The Home Information Pack?
You can pay by Credit or Debit Card, Cash, Cheque (made payable to "Northern Property Information Limited") or by Credit Agreement (Subject To Status). For more information contact us on 0191 568 20 68 or email us at enquiries@npi-hips.co.uk.
Are Home Information Packs Mandatory?
If you are marketing your house for the first time after 1st August 2007 and your property is at least a 4 bedroomed house then you will be required to have a Home Information Pack. The Government are phasing in the Home Information Packs and eventually all properties will require one. Although there are some exempt categories including Tenanted Properties, Commercial Properties, Property Portfolios or Mixed Use Properties.