A HIP is a Home Information Pack.

As of December 14th 2007 all home sellers in England and Wales are legally required to produce a HIP when marketing a property for sale.

The HIP was devised by the Government in order to provide important information upfront, enabling buyers to make informed decisions; to reduce the number of sales falling through and to speed up the buying/selling process.

The compulsory EPC gives prospective buyers information
about the energy efficiency of your home – rating it in a
similar way to many domestic appliances.

It gives the current annual lighting, heating and hot water
costs for the home, plus recommendations for
cost-effective improvements.

It is part of a wider initiative to reduce carbon emissions from properties, and by 2009 all buildings sold, constructed or rented out will have to have an EPC.

Further information can be found on the Government’s website. 
Visit: http://www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk/