Home Information Packs (HIPs) and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
Note: This is our original regulation update text, published on 10 December 2007. Unlike the rest of our site, this archived material is not updated if the law changes.
Relevant to
Domestic property owners and estate agents, property auctioneers, conveyancers, solicitors and others in the property industry in England and Wales
Took effect on
14 December 2007
From 14 December 2007, you will need to give potential buyers a Home Information Pack (HIP) when you newly place a residential property of any size on the market for sale. HIPs must also include Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), which display the home's energy rating.
Most newly built homes are exempt from the HIP duties. They are likely to be included in April 2008 when all newly constructed homes will require an EPC.
An EPC must show the building's energy efficiency and carbon emissions in a green rating of A-G, similar to consumer-friendly refridgerator ratings. EPCs are normally valid for a period of ten years. However, when you place a residential property on the market for sale or rental under the HIP scheme, the EPC must be no more than 12 months old.
For a temporary period between 14 December and 1 June 2008, the only leasehold document required for a leasehold sale will be a copy of the lease. Other leasehold information that is currently required will be authorised for inclusion during this period.
The Green Homes Service will offer information and the possibility of other assistance to those who wish to buy a home that scores a poor energy rating of F or G.
Homes of three bedrooms and more that were put on the market before the HIP commencement date for a property of their particular size are not as yet required to have a HIP. The same will apply to homes with two bedrooms or fewer put on the market before 14 December.
On 1 October 2008, EPCs will be required on the sale or rent of all remaining dwellings and on the construction, sale or rent of all remaining buildings other than dwellings. Display certificates will also be required for all public buildings.
- Find specific information on HIPs on the HIP website - Opens in a new window
- Find out about EPCs on the Communities and Local Government website - Opens in a new window
Full title of regulation
The Home Information Pack (Amendment) Regulations 2007; The Housing Act 2004 (Commencement No. 10) (England and Wales) Order 2007
From
Communities and Local Government
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