SPF News

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles and Housing Minister Grant Shapps made the announcement following fears that the added cost of HIPs was discouraging people from selling their homes and adding to the fragility of the market.

Eric Pickles said:

‘’The expensive and unnecessary HIP has increased the cost and hassle of selling homes and is stifling a fragile housing market.

‘’That’s why I am taking emergency action to suspend the HIP, bringing down the cost of selling a home and removing unnecessary regulation from the home buying process.

‘’This swift and decisive action will send a strong message to the fragile housing market and prevent uncertainty for both home sellers and buyers.

‘’HIPS are history. This action will encourage sellers back into the market, and help the market as a whole and the economy recover.’’

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) will still be a requirement on every property in order to help purchasers make informed decisions on the energy costs of the property.