HOME INFORMATION PACKS
It seems the Government has had a major set back on the introduction of their controversial Home Information Packs. The packs were due to be compulsory for anyone selling their home from 1 June but have been delayed as a judge has ruled that energy certificates must be omitted “for the time being”.
The packs have been brought forward allegedly to ensure that the UK complies with an EU directive. Under the existing plans homes put up for sale in England and Wales must have a pack, costing at least £300, with title deeds and an energy performance certificate.
Energy performance certificates would give sellers and would-be buyers information on the property’s energy efficiency, as well as tips on how the energy efficiency of the home could be improved.
The Lords are due to debate the packs on Tuesday. A select committee has already urged the government to “seriously” consider the criticism it described as “striking” and “widespread”.
While I commend the good intentions behind this bill, in typical Labour fashion they have gone at this in an extremely bureaucratic way. Packs are just another burden for first time buyers who are already struggling to get onto the housing ladder. Further expense, because lets not be silly the buyer will have to pick up the bill in the long run, is bad news for first time buyers.
I fear this is another case where the EU has given us a 3 page directive and Labour is turning it into a longwinded set of regulations we could do well without legally and practically.
