Home Information Packs - HIPS

The only compulsory searches in the HIP are the Local Authority Land Search and the Drainage Search.

These searches are considered a minimum and provide information for buyers and mortgage lenders whether problems exist with sewers or drainage and provide information about planning and building regulations and pending decisions and road building proposals.

Drainage Search

The drainage search will typically include the following

• The statutory drainage map.
• A statement that indicates whether the surface water and foul drainage from the property drains into a public sewer.
• Information regarding Adoption Agreements in place or planned.
• The location of public sewers in relation to the property - specifically public sewers within 100 feet or within the boundary of the property.
• Building over agreement or consent to erect a building or extension above or in the vicinity of a public sewer or disposal main.
• A public water mains map and the name of the company which supplies water in the area.
• A statement regarding the water supply provision for the property is.
• The location of water mains within the boundary of the property.
• Information regarding charging for water supply and sewerage and whether or not a water meter is fitted to the property.

There are called 'Local Enquiries' in the Home Information Pack and include the following:

• Information about pending applications and planning and building regulation decisions.
• Planning designations and proposals
• Information regarding roads.
• Plus a whole host of other information such as: land required for public purposes, land to be acquired for road works, drainage agreements and consents, nearby road, traffic and rail schemes, outstanding notices, infringement of building regulations, conservation areas, contaminated land and radon gas.