Insurance News Archive
36% of homeowners don't know about Hips
Despite controversy around Westminster, 36 per cent of homeowners do not know about home information packs (Hips).
The government scheme to provide buyers with up-front information about a property has led to much discussion in the corridors of power with a recent government u-turn making the home condition report only an optional part of the packs.
However, in the wider world the message about Hips is not spreading, despite them coming into force in July next year.
The research by npower shows understanding about hips comes with age.
Fifty-five per cent of 18- to 29-year-olds were uncertain about Hips while 70 per cent of over 50s were familiar with the packs.
The research also showed the message about the energy rating certificate in the packs is also not getting through.
Those wishing to sell a property are more likely to decorate than consider energy efficiency improvements, despite the fact homes will soon come with an energy grading like new fridges or washing machines.
Andrew Winter, presenter of Channel 4's Selling Houses, commenting on the research, said: "Having an energy efficient home will make it more attractive to potential purchasers as well as adding pounds to the value.
"Questions around a home's energy efficiency will become the norm, just like asking about miles per gallon when you are buying a car."
24 Aug 2006
