New Build HIPs FAQs

New Build Home Information Packs Frequently Asked Questions

Do New Builds Need HIPs?

From April 6th 2008, all new build properties, complete or incomplete, need to have a New Build HIP ordered prior to marketing the property.

Are there any exceptions to New Build HIPs?

There are some exceptions such as:

• Sale of portfolios of properties
• Private sales where no marketing has taken place
• Seasonal and holiday accommodation
• Right to buy sales

What are the penalties for not adhering to HIP legislation?

HIP legislation, including new builds, is enforced by local authority enforcement officers.

Penalties are £200 per property per day.

Who is responsible for ordering the HIP?

Responsibility lies with the company marketing the development. It will either be the housing developer or the estate agent tasked with marketing the development.

What is included within the HIP?

Compulsory documents included:

- Index
- Energy Performance Certificate or Predicted Energy Assessment
- Evidence of title
- Local Authority Searches
- Drainage and Water Searches
- Relevant leasehold and commonhold sales information where appropriate such as a copy of the lease.

Authorised documents which are not compulsory but can be officially included with the New Build Home Information Pack are:

- New Homes Warranty
- Environmental, Mining and Flood Searches

Can a property be marketed if some documents are not available?

It is a legal requirement to have ordered and paid for a HIP for each property. However, it can take 3 -10 working days for local authority information to be returned.

Once the HIP is ordered you have 28 days to complete the New Build HIP Pack.

Do I need an Energy Performance Certificate or a Predicted Energy Assessment?

This depends on whether the property is complete or not. Incomplete properties have a PEA based upon drawings. Complete properties have an EPC. If a property becomes complete before it is sold, an Energy Performance Certificate will be required to replace the PEA.

Are electronic New Build HIPs acceptable?

Absolutely, over 90% of all HIPs are electronic only saving money and resources.

How can I save money on my New Build HIPs?

abc-hips offer the cheapest New Build HIPs available. Whether you compare us to NHBC or hip2go we are the most competitive New Build HIP offering - and by quite a distance.

abc-hips can provide you with a HIP for most of your properties at onl £99 + VAT each. That compares with £190 + VAT for a NHBCBuilder New Build HIP.

Your first HIP for the development is £234 + VAT with each additional property at £99 + VAT.

How Can I Save Time Completing My HIPs?

You don't want to be completing your own HIP. Having HIP software is fine but do you really need the hassle of sourcing documents and uploading and managing Home Information Packs?

abc-hips do all the work for you sourcing searches, uploading documents and hosting the online New Build Home Information Pack.

Do I have to show the HIP to potential buyers?

HIPs should be made available to potential buyers at the earliest opportunity.

You are obliged in law to provide one when requested. This can be an electronic version (simply direct them to your unique URL) or a hard copy within 14 days. Reasonable payment can be requested to provide a hard copy.

Visit http://www.abc-hips.co.uk/ or call 0845 459 2014 to speak with a Customer Support Advisor