From 6th April 2009, Home Information Packs (HIPs) will contain a new mandatory element called the Property Information Questionnaire (PIQ). HIP providers must now move quickly to facilitate this move in time.

Severn Trent Searches, the leading provider of property searches in the Midlands, has already geared itself up for this move, since the Government published a consultation paper in August 2008 discussing the addition of new consumer information within Home Information Packs.

The aim of a PIQ is to make HIPs more user-friendly for buyers, by providing information that is of greatest interest to them, like council tax banding; utility providers; parking arrangements; fire, storm or flood damage; structural alterations; boundaries and access; etc. The PIQ is simple enough to be compiled by the seller without professional consultation, meaning no extra work for legal professionals.

Mark Jarvis, General Manager of Severn Trent Searches says; "PIQ's should certainly improve the quality and flow of information to the consumer and allow all available information on properties to be put forward to prospective buyers."

Severn Trent Searches as a well established and a highly experienced search provider, welcomes the revised legislation which will provide positive benefits for consumers.

"We have the resources, infrastructure and expertise in place to deliver a highly professional HIPs service, and PIQs just add value to this offering"

The present 'temporary' leasehold information provision will be made permanent from 1 January 2009, this means that a copy of the lease will continue to be the only extra information required for leasehold properties. The PIQ will include additional leasehold information from 6 April 2009.

Mark continues; "the introduction of the PIQ means that consumers should become much more engaged in the HIP process and be better informed about the home that they're purchasing. As a HIP and searches provider, we are committed to delivering the benefits of HIPs."

For further information please call 0115 962 7269.

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