Home sellers must look for Hip Code logo

Home sellers should ask their estate agent for a Home Information Pack (HIP) that comes with the HIP Code logo to ensure a speedy and delay-free sale, says the Association of Home Information Pack Providers (AHIPP).

Recent legislation now requires every home to have a HIP in place – not just ordered - before it can be put on the market. To avoid any unnecessary delays or problems with the HIP and the new Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ), which must be completed by the vendor, sellers must make sure that their agent works with a pack provider that subscribes to the HIP Code. Taking this step will ensure the pack is compliant, can be produced quickly and that a strict system of regulation and redress is in place.

Mike Ockenden, Director General, AHIPP comments:

“The HIP Code sets out minimum standards of compliance and transparency and ensures stringent regulation and redress for all those who obtain their HIPs through a registered provider. Consumers should look for the HIP Code logo on the pack to ensure that they are getting the best possible service.”

The Code requires providers to have a formal written complaints procedure to enable speedy and fair resolutions to disputes. In addition providers must have professional indemnity insurance to protect consumers and agents against negligence and loss in the event of failure to carry out the duties set out in the Code. The Code is monitored by the PCCB, which draws on expertise from a range of representatives, from lenders and conveyancers to HIP providers and search organisations.

All members of AHIPP are code compliant and a full list of subscribers can be viewed on the Property Codes Compliance Board (PCCB) website: propertycodes.org.uk