The Eric Whitehead Partnership

On 14th December 2007, it became compulsory for anyone planning to market their property for sale to obtain a Home Information Pack (HIP).

The Pack will include an important document known as an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Such certificates are commissioned by the seller from an accredited Energy Assessor, who will visit the seller’s property to collect the data which will enable them to prepare the certificate. The main purpose of the EPC is to tell a potential buyer how energy efficient a property is, on a scale of A to G. The most energy efficient properties (and, therefore, those with the lowest likely fuel bills) will be in band A and the least energy efficient properties (and, therefore, those with the highest likely fuel bills) will fall into band G. Better rated properties should also have less of an impact on the environment through CO2 emissions and a rating of between A to G will also be provided in that regard.

The EPC will contain recommendations for the potential buyer on how the properties’ ratings can be improved. Buyers whose properties score ratings in bands F or G may receive support from the Government to enable them to improve their ratings. The average UK property falls within bands D or E for both ratings.

The Government’s own figures indicate that the implementation of HIPs over the past few months has gone smoothly. In particular, it would appear that:-

• HIPs are taking, on average, 7 to 10 days to prepare
• EPCs are taking, on average, 2 to 4 days to prepare
• The average cost of a HIP is between £300 and £350.