In time for the mandatory introduction of packs on 1st June, HIP providers subscribing to the voluntary code will be subject to stringent standards to ensure consumers purchasing a pack through an approved provider can place confidence in the finished product.
All those involved in the provision of the packs are invited to sign up to the code of practice, which is not solely restricted to AHIPP members, and consumers will be encouraged by the association to only use a HIP provider who displays the HIP code logo in their window and on their stationery.
Mike Ockenden, director general of AHIPP said: “The government will be regulating home inspectors to ensure that they carry out their role to the highest standard and all consumers purchasing a HIP with the HIP code logo can be confident that their provider is also being stringently regulated. This code is a positive step to ensure that the whole provision of HIPs is seen to be regulated and above board.”
However, Peter Brodnicki, chief executive at the Mortgage Advice Bureau doubted that a code of conduct would have much impact on the amount of business a provider received and that speed, efficiency and cost would have more of an effect on business levels.
He commented: “I don’t believe a code of conduct is necessary as there is no advice given by pack providers and the process involved is relatively simple. The energy report involves a tick box process and the legal searches are standard. There isn’t much to go wrong when compiling a HIP.”
