Following the publication by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) of a timeline leading to the implementation of Home Information Packs (HIPs) on 1 June 2007, Kevin Martin, Law Society president, says:

”It is encouraging that the government have listened to our call for a robust dry run, but the timeline leaves very little scope for that process. The industry and consumers need to be sure that the benefits that the government claims will be delivered and that the timetable allows any problems in the process to be rectified.”

”Concerns remain about the training and regulation of Home Inspectors. The decision to go for multiple certification schemes will require a strong regulatory regime to ensure consistency and high standards for consumer protection.”

”The government says there are benefits for first-time buyers who are not involved in a chain. One group which will be disadvantaged by the introduction of HIPs is the growing elderly population, who are often forced to sell to move into sheltered accommodation and pay for care. They will therefore have to pay for full packs, but have no hope of ever seeing any benefit.”

”The Law Society will continue to voice its concerns to the ODPM in the lead-up to the launch of HIPs and to influence the way in which the scheme will operate in the interests both of the solicitor and the consumer.”

The Law Society regulates and represents the solicitors’ profession in England and Wales and has a public interest role in working for reform of the law.

For more information, call the Law Society Press Office on 020 7320 5811.