Serving clients across the UK, from offices in Bristol, Weston-super-Mare, Yatton, Wedmore and Clevedon
Home Information Packs
So, you've just bought the house of your dreams - and you are never going to move again! What's your next move?
Home information packs and how they will effect you.
Maybe work commitments change, possibly a larger family, or perhaps something even better comes along. But in a few years time, who knows? In the not-too-distant future, in fact from 1st June 2007, before you or your estate agent can put your property up for sale a Home Information Pack (a "HIP") will have to be prepared.
This will have to include all sorts of information, not least details about what you have done to the property while you have owned it. No HIP - no sale! The solicitor who dealt with your purchase for you will have made sure everything was in order up to the time you bought the house. But they won't know what has happened since. That's up to you. So here's a reminder of some of the things you should look out for:
Planning Permission and Building Regulations
If you are going to make structural alterations or additions remember that you may need planning and/or building regulation consents. Talk to the Local Authority beforehand and find out what's needed. If Building Regulation Consent is needed make sure you obtain a Building Completion Certificate when the work is done. Keep all records, correspondence and plans carefully.
Replacement Windows, Rooflights or Glazed Doors
If you are installing double-glazing or replacing window lights or glazed doors, the work must be carried out by a FENSA registered contractor - or alternatively Building Regulation Consent obtained from the Local Authority. Make sure you obtain the FENSA Certificate as well as any guarantees.
Heating Appliances
New heating appliances must be installed by a qualified engineer. If gas, by a CORGI registered engineer. If coal fired, by a HEATAS engineer. If oil, by a OFTEC engineer. Again, obtain the necessary certificate and guarantee.
Electrical Work
If you have any electrical alterations, rewiring or additions the work must be carried out by a qualified electrician who must supply an ELECSA Certificate (or alternatively a Building Regulation Inspection Certificate).
Structural Alterations and Improvments
Don't forget that you house may be subject to restrictive covenants - which may mean that you need someone's consent to make alterations - or that you may not be allowed to make them at all. Your solicitor will have told you about any such restrictions when you bought the property. Don't forget them - and make sure you obtain any consents before you start the work.
Other Alterations and Improvements
Lots of the things you do to the property will carry a guarantee or warranty. Make sure you keep these so that they can be passed on to a buyer if you sell the property. The list isn't comprehensive - but it flags up some of the areas where you must be careful to keep records. The HIP will have to contain all relevant details and once again, don't forget - after 1st June 2007 - NO HIP, NO SALE!
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