Home Information Packs

By: Scott McBride - Updated: 16 Sep 2025 | *Discuss

 

Buying and selling a home in England and Wales can still feel complex, but the process has evolved since the days of Home Information Packs (HIPs). While HIPs were scrapped in 2010, many of the documents they contained remain an essential part of property transactions today, helping buyers make informed decisions and reducing the risk of sales falling through.

On average, around a quarter of property transactions collapse before contracts are exchanged, often leading to wasted time and expense. To minimise this, key information is now provided to prospective buyers early in the process, usually at the seller’s cost. This ensures greater transparency and reduces the chance of unexpected issues later on.

For those purchasing a home or investment property, the required documents include:

• Property Information Form (TA6).
• Evidence of title.
• Standard conveyancing searches.
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
• Fixtures and Fittings Form (TA10).
• Leasehold Information Form (TA7), where applicable.

The Property Information Form gives details such as boundaries, disputes, planning permissions, guarantees, and services to the property. The Fixtures and Fittings Form outlines exactly what is included in the sale, from appliances to garden features.

The evidence of title confirms that the seller owns the property and has the legal right to sell it. Standard searches carried out by the buyer’s solicitor cover areas such as drainage and water services, local authority planning decisions, road schemes, and any charges or restrictions on the property.

The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a property’s energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Homes with higher ratings are generally cheaper to run and more environmentally friendly. The average UK property falls into bands D–E, and the certificate includes practical recommendations to improve energy efficiency.

If the property is leasehold, the Leasehold Information Form provides key details such as ground rent, service charges, length of lease, and the responsibilities of both freeholder and leaseholder. For shared freehold or commonhold properties, additional documentation about shared areas and management responsibilities is included.

Although not always required, sellers and solicitors may also provide:

• Survey or HomeBuyer Report.
• Building Regulation certificates and planning approvals.
• Warranties or guarantees for recent works.
• Specialist searches, e.g. mining, flooding, or environmental risks.

These additional documents give buyers further reassurance. For example, a HomeBuyer Report or survey provides a professional assessment of the property’s condition, while specialist searches highlight risks such as subsidence, flooding, or contamination. Including guarantees and warranties (for example, for double glazing or roofing works) can also add confidence for buyers.

Overall, while the formal HIP has gone, the modern conveyancing process still aims to provide clarity, reduce uncertainty, and help transactions proceed smoothly for both sellers and buyers.

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