Which? investigation questions HIPs

A Which? investigation has found few signs that home information packs (Hips) are making it easier and cheaper to sell a property.

Since December, all homes put up for sale in England and Wales require a Hip, which includes searches and an energy performance certificate (EPC).

But we've found that the cost of a Hip can vary enormously and sometimes potential buyers can have great difficulty even getting their hands on one.

We sent out our researchers to act as prospective buyers in Eastbourne, Ipswich, Leicester and Rotherham.

Undercover research
Out of 23 estate agents, 11 had properties with Hip reports, but our researchers were given just two.

The agents who refused gave various excuses.

Two agents said the report was the private property of the owner and two others said that it was illegal to mail a copy – both reasons are untrue.

More surprising is that sellers have had trouble getting hold of a pack they have paid for.

Price variation
One Which? member was told it would cost £20 plus VAT for a hard copy of the report.

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