Insurance News Archive

Many 'oblivious to Hips'

Over 60 per cent of homeowners claim that they have never heard of Home Information Packs (Hips).

This worrying statistic comes almost a year before the packs are to be introduced by the government.

A study commissioned by the Law Society of England and Wales has found that only a third of those who have heard of Hips are unaware that they contain important legal documents.

When asked for their reasons for choosing a particular Hip provider, trustworthiness was a top priority for Brits.

Almost 60 per cent of respondents said that they would be likely to trust a solicitor to prepare their pack for them.

"The results show a huge lack of public awareness, and with only 12 months to go there is real cause for concern," comments Kevin Martin, president of the Law Society.

"A huge campaign is needed to educate homeowners about this massive overhaul to the home-buying process," he concluded.

31 May 2006