The government has confirmed its intention to press ahead with its controversial plans for the introduction of home information packs (HIPs), shrugging off calls for a delay.


The Department for Communities and Local Government last week released the final regulations governing the contents of the packs, two months before they are due to become mandatory on 1 June.



The regulations make minor amendments in a bid to iron out problems highlighted during the area trials of HIPs. They state that, for a transitional period, sellers will be able to market their homes with a HIP that contains only the index, the new energy performance certificate, a sale statement and evidence of title.



Provided sellers can show that other documents - such as searches and leasehold information - have been requested, they will not have to include them in the pack. Until April 2008, personal search companies will be allowed to use insurance for those parts of the search where they cannot gain access to the relevant data.



Additionally, a property already on the market on 1 June will not require a HIP unless it remains unsold after 31 December 2007.



Law Society Deputy Vice-President Paul Marsh said the government is 'charging towards the precipice'. He explained: 'We warned them there are still problems that need to be addressed, particularly with the issue of searches.'



The government, Mr Marsh added, was pushing sellers towards personal searches because they are faster and cheaper, but this presented a dilemma for buyers, as many solicitors would advise not to accept them.



Rob Hailstone, chief executive of pack provider HIPAG, said: 'Like them or loathe them, in order to survive, solicitors must now ensure they understand the legislation surrounding HIPs and how their introduction will affect their conveyancing work. It really is time to get prepared.'



Catherine Baksi