The Association of Home Information Pack Providers has experienced a further surge in membership as the June 2007 deadline for home information pack implementation draws closer.

The pack providers’ body membership has grown by over 10% since the announcement of the early roll out of packs in August as more businesses commit to this vital reform of the home buying and selling process. An increasing number of companies are now recognising the opportunities that are presented by taking a proactive role now rather than waiting until June next year.

Recent members to join the Association include SHBC Ltd - an insurance provider for Hip products, allhip – a Yorkshire based Hip provider, Stratify Associates – a Hip provider based in the south east and Professional Property Searches Ltd – a search provider.

Keith Gould, managing director of Stratify Associates said: “We are delighted to become a part of AHIPP and to get involved in the early roll out of Hips, helping to bring to life this vital reform in the home buying and selling process.”

“It is our belief that both the industry and the consumer will look to suppliers who are visibly committed and accountable. Our membership of AHIPP signifies our commitment and we are now seeing a strong recognition via the new estate agents opting to join our network. Stratify looks forward to playing a full and active role in the Association’s activities.”

Extended early roll out

The AHIPP roll out, launched in November is providing sellers in selected locations with an opportunity to provide a Hip to potential purchasers to assist with the sale of their home. The roll out will be extended in January to 12 additional locations to allow more consumers across the UK to use the packs ahead of their mandatory introduction next June.

Mike Ockenden, AHIPP’s director general said: “The response to the early roll out of packs has been hugely positive from both consumers and industry alike. A large number of sellers in the early roll out locations have opted to have a Hip, the majority of which included a home condition report.”

“Consumers are now seeing the benefits of packs first hand and are already telling us how much they like them. By June 2007 all buyers and sellers will be able to experience the benefits of Hips with less transactions falling through and much greater speed and certainty in the process. In turn this will help to reduce the ridiculous levels of stress presently associated with buying and selling homes in this country.”