Hip loopholes rubbished by Ahipp

Posted: 27 Jul 2007 13:53:21 GMT

So-called loopholes in Home information pack (Hip) regulations have been rubbished.

So-called loopholes in Home information pack (Hip) regulations have been rubbished.

The Association of Home Information Pack Providers (Ahipp) says that its Hip Code, which was launched in 2006, protects the Hips process from any get-out clauses.

It comes just days ahead of the August 1st introduction of Hips into the home-selling process for properties with four or more bedrooms.

As the introduction date approaches, a large number of rumours about loopholes in the system are circulating but Ahipp says none of them are true.

"We have witnessed a number of ambiguous claims over recent months from industry spokespeople who have remained intent on denying consumers the benefits of Hips," commented Mike Ockenden, director general of Ahipp.

"Rumours suggesting that homeowners may be encouraged to delay ordering their pack to avoid having a Hip, have now been quashed by the Code.

"Responsible providers will not allow the processing of ambiguous or purposefully delayed Hips and will play a pivotal role in ensuring the widespread use and understanding of the packs for the benefit of all involved," he added.

The Hip Code is subscribed to by 90 per cent of pack providers and homeowners are being urged to only purchase a pack from a registered provider.

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