Revised HIP Regulations Strengthen Position for Drainage and Water Searches

Today parliament laid the revised regulations on Home Information Packs (HIPs) which confirm the requirement for Drainage and Water Searches to remain a key component when HIPs are introduced on 1 June 2007.

The revised regulations stated the policy for insurance on drainage and water searches will remain unchanged. All questions outlined in Schedule 9 of the HIP legislation must now include compulsory answers. This reinforces the intended purpose of HIPs, which is to provide all information about a property at the outset, giving buyers a true and whole picture. There will be no opportunities for HIP providers to 'insure out' important questions detailed in the search and they will be required to provide all the information up front at the point of marketing.

Severn Trent Searches, who are one of the 10 Water Companies of England and Wales, have been working hard to provide accurate reports fast. An already established and highly experienced search provider, the company has welcomed the revised legislation which will provide positive benefits for customers.

Mark Jarvis, General Manager, Severn Trent Searches, said: "Severn Trent Searches already have the resources, infrastructure, organisation and expertise in place to deliver a highly professional service. Customers can expect to receive accurate information from a trusted source which can be completed in excellent turnaround times.

"The Water Companies of England and Wales have worked closely in the roll-out trials to demonstrate their capability in service and turnaround time, which has prevented any issues arising on the Drainage and Water search."

Results show that the majority of the Water Companies have turned around 95% of Drainage and Water enquiries in 5 working days, and in many cases as little as 24 hours. These fast turnaround times help to ensure HIPs are produced as quickly as possible.

<< Back to Press Releases