Home Information Packs are mandatory for all properties new to the market. The estate agent must be in possession of a HIP before any kind of marketing can begin.

Compulsory documents included in the pack are an index, Energy Performance Certificate, sale statement, standard Searches, evidence of title and a Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ), which was added to the pack on 6th April 2009.

The most unfamiliar component to the house moving process is the Energy Performance Certificate. This highlights the energy efficiency of a property and its CO2 impact on the environment. These are then rated from A- G, where A is the most energy efficient. It is designed to make us all more aware of insulation and fuel costs and to conserve energy and reduce emissions.

A Domestic Energy Assessor will report on the efficiency of the boiler, thermostatic valves, wall and loft insulations, light bulbs, double glazing, fabric and construction of the building and heat loss areas. This data will provide the energy rating.

No survey or condition rating is included in the pack so it is still the responsibility of the buyer to have a survey carried out. It is expected that the pack will be developed further in the future to include more useful information including some kind survey or condition rating.

For leasehold properties a copy of the lease must be included in the pack, along with management information, details and statements of service charges and details of the landlord.

The Property Information Questionnaire was introduced on 6th April 2009 and must be completed by the vendor. These questions relate to the property, services, its uses, changes, boundaries and disputes.

The typical cost of a pack is £315.00 plus V.A.T. this can be paid by debit or credit card or even later by deferred payment at an additional cost.