Scrapping Hips would be 'huge setback'

Posted: 12 Jul 2006 10:11:18 GMT

Postponing or abandoning the introduction of Home Information Packs (Hips) would cost consumers more than £300 million a year, according to a new report.

An EU directive will demand that every house for sale must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) by 2009 and this is likely to cost the home seller around £250.

Because Hips will contain this required EPC when introduced in June next year, this extra cost will almost be eliminated. Put together by a qualified Home Inspector and forming part of the Home Condition Report, the EPC is actually set to cost only £50 per home as part of the Hip.

Mike Ockenden, director general of the Association of Home Information Pack Providers (AHIPP), said: "David Cameron is prepared to concrete his lawn and put a windmill on his London house - but when it comes to serious environmental issues he fails to take action."

He added: "Hips will introduce the Energy Performance Certificate next year, two years ahead of the mandatory date of 2009."

Mr Ockenden claims to be puzzled by the Conservative Party's aversion to Hips, saying that the packs will reduce the number of failed transactions, speed up the house selling process, save money and encourage energy efficiency.


© Houseladder Ltd




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