Swaggering HIPS

The RICS reported yesterday that they consider the implementation of the HIPS package is unworkable.

HIPS, which are due to take effect on 1st June 2007 are considered by the RICS "to be poor and expensive product and one that will neither improve the conveyancing process nor improve energy efficiency in the domestic setting.”

Ever since the loss of the actual survey element, the pack has lost it's bite with most professional organisations, including the NAEA, The Law Society and the RICS, offering some objections.

The impact of the continued objection to the pack has led to a dramatically reduced number of surveyors who are suitably trained. When training can cost a surveyor up to £1,500 each it is hardly surprising that a lot of small businesses have held off. Some of the larger companies who have trained a lot of their staff, including Countrywide Surveyors would be more than slightly disappointed if the HIPS do not proceed.

A point made in the report in Building Magazine is even if a report is undertaken and issued to any would b purchaser, is the lay person going to be able to understand the contents and act upon them?

The government can still pull the plug on this shambles during a commons vote at 1pm today.