The Government has announced that it will form an 'implementation task force' to enable the smooth introduction of home information packs (HIP's). This follows the decision by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister to join the Property Information Common Exchange Scheme recently.
It is hoped that the task force will be able to bring together all parties involved to discuss the strategy of implementation as well as the data exchange standard.
Our view
Home Information Packs have been continually delayed and we can see no reason why they are not already in force. In simple terms, when you are looking to sell a house you will be required (or you agent will prepare for you) a pack with much of the surveys, legal searches etc already done.
We actually believe this will be a waste of time given that most solicitors, those that wish to protect themselves and their clients, will conduct their own searches and surveys again anyway!