What are the changes?

All HIPs for properties put up for sale on or after 6th April 2009 must include a new Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ) completed by the seller. This form provides helpful information buyers want to know about a property before making any decisions.

First-time buyers, who often have little experience of buying a home, will find this checklist of questions and answers particularly helpful. By answering these straightforward questions before they put their home up for sale, sellers can help avoid unwanted delays or surprises later on.

From 6 April 2009, a HIP must be available to potential buyers on the first day a property is put up for sale. This should mean that sellers can also see what they have paid for from the start.