Fairbairn Smith & Co Solicitors

In order to assist our clients, particularly those who are purchasing a home for the first time and do not know what to expect, we have produced an information leaflet which can be viewed by following this link:

Buying a Home

Home Information Pack (HIP)

From 10 September 2007, a Home Information Pack (HIP) is required for the sale or three or more bedroom properties in England & Wales. Home Information Packs including Energy Performance Certificates have been implemented on a phased basis which started on 1 August 2007.

The HIP will provide prospective purchasers with important information about the property they are considering buying, free of charge. Some items for inclusion in the HIP will be compulsory, others will be optional.

The HIP will include the following:

Home Information Pack Index
Sale statement
Evidence of title (ownership)
Energy Performance Certificate
Local Search
Drainage and Water Search
Warranties and guarantees (for new properties)
Copies of planning / listed building / building regulation consents and approvals
Guarantees for any work carried out to the property
Home Condition Report (optional)
Home Use Form
Home Contents Form

In addition, for Leasehold properties:-

Copy of the Lease
Receipt for ground rent and Service Charges
Statements of Service Charges for the previous three years
Details of building insurance policy
Regulations made by Landlord / Management Company
Memorandum and articles of Landlord / Management Company
Details of the landlord/Management company
Summary of works being undertaken or proposed that will affect the property or the building in which it's situated.

If you are a seller, the pack will need to be commissioned and prepared before an Estate Agent can market your property.

Our Conveyancing Staff keep abreast of developments and are able to advise you on how to prepare for selling your home.

For further information about Home Information Packs you may wish to visit the following Government website:-

www.communities.gov.uk/homeinformationpacks

Services for Landlords

Should you require advice about Tenancy Agreements or Possession Proceedings, please follow this link: Landlord & Tenant

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