It may seem remarkable at this late stage but many
experienced industry insiders are suggesting that the introduction
of the
Home
information pack (HIP) Regulations may actually be
delayed further.
HIPs are meant to be
introduced on the 1st June 2007 in what has been billed
as the most challenging legal reform to hit the country
since the personal injury reforms in 1999. The HIP
regime will change forever the way residential property
is bought and sold in this country.
Whilst not as groundbreaking
or as useful as they could have been, there is no doubt
that many consumers will benefit from having an
opportunity to assess a pack before they purchase a
house. Many important features will be delivered to the
prospective buyer (energy efficiency reports, searches
etc) that would previously have either not been
produced, or would have been prepared / delivered slowly
over a period of months. Thus delaying and frustrating
the whole process.
The
Government quite rightly decided some time ago that
the traditional way of purchasing property simply had to
change.
draws near, more negative news is
being publicised by industry experts. The latest round
of scare mongering stories relates to the apparent lack
of Assessors who can provide the key energy performance
certificates.
There is however a
groundswell of opinion that the
Regulations
will not be introduced on the 1st June as planned. The
government is predicted to make a dramatic 'U' turn
based on negative industry feedback. A delay is
expected.
We will soon find out what
the plan is - 4 weeks and counting to the key date!!
