Rickerbys helps clients get HIP with property transactions - February 08

Building upon their enviable reputation for delivering a first-class conveyancing service, the Residential Property department of leading south-west law firm Rickerbys has announced the launch of a Home Information Pack (HIP) service to assist clients and introducers alike.

As HIP providers, Rickerbys is one of the few law firms throughout England and Wales currently providing this service and its implementation highlights the firm’s progressive approach to legislative changes, according to Simon David, Partner at Rickerbys.

“As of the 14 December last year, every seller new to the market must provide a HIP to any prospective purchaser,” comments David.

“The HIP itself effectively gives the buyer information at an early stage of the purchase and includes, amongst other information, a sales statement, an energy performance certificate, copies of the deeds, a local search and a drainage and water search.”

David is adamant that HIPs will reduce the period between offer acceptance and exchange of contracts reducing the risk of a buyer pulling out.

“The fact that two searches are available in the HIP can dramatically reduce the time that a buyer’s solicitor may take to get to exchange – in fact the timesaving can sometimes even be a matter of weeks.”

“Despite the furore of HIPs coming into force, the reality is that they have aided the selling process making moving home a quicker and less stressful experience.”

“As one of the largest conveyancing firms in the South West, it is essential that we continue to remain at the forefront of any changes in practice. For this reason, we have implemented a very competitive HIPs package with prices starting from £299 plus VAT.”

“Conveyancing solicitors need to remain reactive to the market and this includes ensuring we are up-to-date with our services. Alongside the introduction of a HIPs package, we also provide online facilities that ensure our clients have 24 hour access to the progress of their conveyancing case and both services are proving popular.” concludes David.

Simon David, Partner and Head of Residential Property, Rickerbys