about home information Packs           

Since December 2007 every property put on the market in England and Wales, no matter what the size, must have a Home Information Pack (HIP). They are now a legal requirement for homeowners to complete before putting their property up for sale.

The pack contains important information about the property, including a sales statement, searches and evidence of title. HIP documents give consumers a clear, up front picture of what they are buying and selling, making transactions more efficient and less likely to fall through between offer and exchange.

energy performance certificates

Every Home Information Pack includes an Energy Performance Certificate and advice on how to cut Co2 emissions and fuel bills. The certificate is similar to those found on electrical appliances like fridges and washing machines, with a rating from A to G.

The certificates are commissioned by the seller (or their agent) from an accredited Energy Assessor, who will have visited the property and assessed its energy efficiency using a Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP). This takes into account the date, construction and location of the house and relevent fittings (heating systems, insulation or double glazing, for example).

The most efficient homes will have an A rating (lower fuel bills!) and the least effecient a G rating. The certificate also rates the environmental impact of the home. The higher the rating the lower the Co2 emmissions and the less impact it has on the environment.

example of an energy performance certificate                      

how can earthwhile help?

The Home Information Pack will also include recommendations on ways to improve the property's energy efficiency. These are graded by cost of installation and potential energy cost savings over a period of 10 years.

The more energy efficient measures like loft and cavity insulation, draught proofing and low energy light bulbs you have, the better your rating. A home with a higher rating is likely to be more attractive to a potential buyer than a similar house with a lower rating.

Earthwhile stocks a wide range of energy efficient products, materials and gadgets all with useful information regarding potential cash & Co2 savings as well as payback timescales and any recycling opportunities.

Our products can be ordered online and delivered to your door. For more information please call us on 0845 2960060