Caroline Flint, Labour Housing Minister, has announced that compulsory implementation of a HIP before a property can be marketed will be delayed. 

 
Initially the scheme was to be fully introduced on at the beginning of June 08, but it is widely believed that this delay, probably until the end of the year, was prompted by the slowdown in the housing market.

Though this delay is welcomed by the industry, it is yet another blow to the credibility of the HIP and its implementation.  Commenting on this James Scott-Lee, spokesperson for RICS, says:  “RICS is pleased to see the government is taking a pragmatic approach to enable people to get their property onto the market without having to wait for a HIP.  In current market conditions it is essential to avoid anything which restricts a homeowner’s ability to market their property when they choose.”

As well as this change the Department for Communities and Local Government has introduced a number of new measures:
• Developing a new set of standards on what consumers should expect for agents when buying and selling their homes
• Improving the quality of information contained within the HIP
• Ensuring consumers see the added value and benefits of the HIP
• Including the energy performance certification early in the process

Commenting on the proposed new sections that will be added to the HIP Ms Flint says:  “Developing a new set of standards for industry is an important next step in further ensuring all consumers get the highest quality of service when buying or selling a home.”