HIPs 'can reduce carbon emissions'

Posted: 03 Dec 2009 09:57:44 GMT

Home information packs (HIPs) are helping to reduce carbon emissions, according to one industry expert.

Mick Ockenden, director-general of the Association of Home Information Pack Providers (AHIPP) says that 65 per cent of the consumers questioned in a recent survey found the packs useful.

He goes on to say that 30 per cent of home buyers have used measures recommended in an energy performance certificate to make changes that will save energy in their home.

Mr Ockenden states: "That to me says that HIPs are actually helping to reduce carbon emissions."

The comments came in response to criticisms from the Conservative party over the costs of the packs.

Recent figures have revealed that HIPs have cost two million vendors around £657 million since they were introduced.

Grant Shapps, the shadow housing minister, says that the packs will become history under a Conservative government.

A recent survey commissioned by AHIPP revealed that 85 per cent of those questioned say that the need to obtain a HIP did not influence their decision about whether or not to sell their home.

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