FAQs

What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
An Energy Performance Certificate is a report which shows the energy efficiency and environmental impact of a home using a scale of A – G, where A is the most energy efficient. They also show recommendations and advice to save energy and reduce fuel bills.

What is a Home Information Pack (HIP)?
A HIP contains information about a property and includes an EPC, standard searches and evidence of title.

How will the seller benefit from an EPC?
The EPC will identify various improvements to reduce fuel bills and make the property more attractive to potential buyers.

Why should the seller trust the energy assessment?
All domestic energy assessors have completed a nationally recognized qualification and are members of an Accreditation scheme which ensures they have had a criminal record check and that they have suitable insurance cover should any claims be made.

How will the buyer benefit from a HIP report?
The EPC will identify various improvements that buyers can make to reduce their future fuel bills and to reduce carbon emissions to increase the energy efficiency of the property.

What happens if the seller withdraws the property from the market?
The same HIP can be used if the property is remarketed within a year of it first being marketed. This may be reviewed by the government in the future.

Will an assessment take place at my property?
Yes. An internal and external inspection will take place by a suitably qualified and NHER accredited Domestic Energy Assessor. As well as making site notes it is necessary to take photographs as part of the inspection record.

Why have the government introduced Home Information Packs?
To make the home buying process quicker, easier and to promote awareness of energy efficiency.

What does a Home Information Pack contain?
• Index
• Energy Performance Certificate
• Sale Statement
• Planning consent and building control certificates
• Standard searches
• Information on lease (if applicable)
• Evidence of title
• Property Information Questionnaire

When is a HIP not required?
• If a property is uninhabitable, unsafe and not fit for human occupation.
• If a property is due to be demolished.
• If a property has a mixed use for example a shop with a flat above sold as one.
• If the property is not marketed for example a private sale where the property is not advertised for sale.
• If the property is part of the sale of a portfolio of properties.
• If the property is used as holiday accommodation.

What areas do you cover?
North-east England.

What is the validity period for a rental EPC?
Currently a domestic EPC remains valid for 10 years from the date the certificate was provided. However you may choose to renew your EPC earlier if there have been any significant changes made to the property such as an increase in insulation or a new central heating system.

What is the validity period for a HIP?
Legally a HIP remains valid for as long as the property remains on the Market. The completed Home Information Pack or HIP remains valid provided;
the property is still being marketed 1 year after it was first up for sale (you may take your house off the market as many times as you like within the first year)
The property is continuously marketed after the 1st year of marketing has elapsed.
If you have a failed sale occurring more than 1 year after marketing commenced you must put your property back on the market within 28 days
However it is possible that this validity period will be revised, so be sure to check www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk