HOME INFORMATION PACKS ARE COMING!

From 1st June 2007, any property owner who wants to sell their home will have to assemble a Home Information Pack (HIP) before the property is marketed.

By law, the HIP will have to include a range of information including an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).  This is a document that gives buyers and sellers an indication (by way of a rating) of their home’s energy efficiency and carbon emissions.  This will give them current average costs for heating, hot water and lighting in the home as well as how to cut costs with energy efficient measures.  Only qualified and licenced Domestic Energy Assessors will be able to produce EPC’s and they will have to show that they meet stringent national competence of standards and registration criteria.  Arnolds have Domestic Energy Assessors in training and will be able to assist and who will undertake this work without charge within our normal sole agency commission arrangements, subject to conditions.

Arnolds will also be able to put you in touch with solicitors able to provide the legal content of the pack which will include:-

• An index.
• An Energy Performance Certificate and associated documentation.
• A summary of the terms of sale.
• Evidence of title.
• Copies of any planning, listed building regulation consents and approvals.
• Copies of warranties and guarantees for new properties.
• Local searches (LLC1 and CON29).
• Drainage and water searches (CON29DW).
• Where appropriate, common hold information.
• Where appropriate, leasehold information.

In addition there are authorised documents which can be added which will include a full home condition report, a legal summary, a home contents form etc.

Arnolds are well prepared and have the skills to undertake the Energy Assessment work on your behalf within our standard sole agency commission fee and put the Home Information Pack together for you either with your present solicitor or to a lawyer to whom we can introduce you.  The legal works will be chargeable but, in some circumstances can be deferred until a sale is arranged.  Please ask for further details by contacting one of our Residential Sales Offices.

David Richardson FRICS
david.richardson@arnolds.uk.com
April 2007

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