HIP FAQs

• Is a hip required across the UK?
  
  No, a hip is only required for properties marketed for sale in England and Wales.
  
  
• Who is responsible for providing the pack?
  
  The Seller must provide a pack when a property is first marketed for sale. The Estate Agent is also responsible to ensure a pack is provided.
  
  
• Are there penalties for failing to provide a pack?
  
  Yes, failure to provide a pack is an offence enforceable by Trading Standards. For each day that a property is marketed without a HIP in place, the seller or their selling agent is liable to a fine of £200 for each and every visit by the Trading Standards Officer that they discover that no HIP is available.
  
  The offence is a civil offence, but it is understood that persistent breaches will be reported to the Office of Fair Trading for further consideration of sanctions.
  
  
• Does a Seller need a HIP if they sell their property privately?
  
  No. Only if a property is openly marketed for sale. However, a HIP will be needed if: -
  
  • A property is marketed through an estate agent
  • A property is advertised on the internet
  • An advert is placed in the press or local shops
  • A 'For Sale' sign is placed outside of a property
  • Any other form of advertising is undertaken.
  
  
  
• How do I get a HIP?
  
  We will be delighted to help you compile a hip for you. Please contact our New Business Team on 03700 862200 to discuss your proposals and for a competitive quotation.
  
  
• Does a buyer, or their conveyancer, have to pay to view a hip?
  
  Using our online viewer, hips may be viewed without charge by those given authority to view. Components of the hip may also be printed off by the viewer. We would make a charge to cover our printing and administration charges if a paper copy of the hip was requested.