The content of the Home Information Pack has been the cause of much controversy - especially after the main document, the Home Condition Report (HCR) was dropped in 2006 in favour of the new Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

The latest regulations state that all documents must either be Required or Authorised. Required documents are compulsory and must be included in every HIP. Other documents can be added at the solicitor's discretion, as long as those documents are listed on the Authorised list. This is to stop advertisements and other such nuisances being included, as is prevalent in the equivalent packs in places like Denmark.

The following lists the documents you can expect to find in the Required and Authorised lists:

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Energy Performance Certificate (must be first document in HIP) A Completed Index A Completed Sale Statement Evidence of Title     Registered Land     Unregistered Land Unexpired Warranties "What to look for in your HIP" leaflet Additionally, leasehold and commonhold properties will require: Main lease and other leases Service charge accounts Section 2 L&T Act Notices Insurance information Any current regulations made Memo and articles Name of current landlord/management company Receipts for payment of Ground Rent, Service Charge, Insurance etc. Any amendments to lease or other documents Relevant notices Details of proposed works

AUTHORISED DOCUMENTS

A translation or alternative formats (e.g. Welsh, Braille etc.) Home Use Form Home Contents Form Documents referred to in Official Copies Warranties, guarantees and work details Summary Plan, photograph or drawing Home Condition Report