Government U-turn on home condition reports

Citation

(2006), "Government U-turn on home condition reports", Structural Survey, Vol. 24 No. 5. https://doi.org/10.1108/ss.2006.11024eab.001

Government U-turn on home condition reports

Keywords: Housing, Reports, Housing legislation

The Government has announced plans for the introduction of Energy Performance Certificates as part of the phased roll-out of Home Information Packs (HIPs) to help consumers cut costs and waste when buying a home and help the environment too. In the light of the plans for testing and concerns about the readiness of industry, the Government has announced new proposals to phase the introduction of HIPs, prioritising the delivery of energy efficiency information with further testing later this year on the other aspects of HIPs. This means that HIPs will be introduced in June next year with searches and energy performance information, enabling buyers and sellers to get A-G ratings on their homes similar to fridge ratings as well as a list of practical measures to cut their fuel bills and carbon emissions at the same time. However on the basis of detailed consultations with industry and the latest market and testing information, the government has decided to phase the roll out of other aspects of HIPs, introducing the rest of Home Condition Reports on a market-led basis in the first instance, in order to ensure a smooth implementation with clear benefits for consumers. Mandatory introduction of Home Condition Reports remains on the table, however the Government wants to encourage market led take up first, in order to allow a more flexible roll-out that responds to consumer demand and the results of further testing. The Government will urgently review with key stakeholders what support is needed to ensure that there are sufficient home inspectors in place, and that consumers are fully protected.