Since September, properties with three or more bedrooms have required a HIP before they can be sold.
Paul Broadhead, Deputy Director General, Association of Home Information Pack Providers (AHIPP), said: The final phase of the rollout will be gratefully received by our members who were beginning to feel the pressure following the Governments recent delay. This vital step has now clearly reinforced Governments commitment to the successful implementation of HIPs and we look forward to seeing the positive impact.”
However, the packs have proved controversial, with many critics claiming that they have made it more difficult and expensive to sell property.
Broadhead said: The independent research by Europe Economics dispels suggestions by RICS and NAEA that HIPs are having a detrimental impact on the market place. Continued mis-information has contributed to the delay and has resulted in fewer energy efficiency measures being introduced by homeowners.
“HIPs are here to stay. By working together with the wider industry we can now build upon this foundation and really revolutionise the market for the benefit of the consumer and the industry. In addition, we can also start to significantly improve the energy efficiency of our homes.
Housing Minister Yvette Cooper said that the extended roll-out would help first-time buyers by providing them with more information.
