We write with reference to a report by Catherine Baksi about cost-price HIPs (see [2009] Gazette, 11 June, 2). We at Donaldson West have been dealing with HIPs in this way since their inception.

We have never charged a profit for the preparation of the packs. We can conclude these within five days, including the provision of the energy performance certificate.

The cost of this, in this area, is about £250-£290, depending on the cost of the energy performance certificate.

The article did not mention whether the searches include a full local authority search or whether they include a personal search. The cost of the pack indicates to us that it is a personal search, which we do not believe is in the seller’s or the buyer’s best interests.

We do not believe that any seller would want to provide a search, which in effect is of no use to a buyer because of the lack of information supplied within it.

Through our providing a full local authority search, we believe that our clients are providing a pack which can be used by the buyer and goes towards performing the HIP’s purpose.

Mark Williams, Donaldson West, Crowborough