HIP bodies struggle on as they 'regulate the dead'

Amid accusations that they are “regulating the dead”, industry bodies AHIPP and the Property Codes Compliance Board have said that they are carrying on.

AHIPP, whose contract with top PR firm Wriglesworth came to an end on Saturday, is even considering stepping up its lobbying by renewing a PR contract and taking on a public affairs company.

Director general Mike Ockenden said: “It is up to the members of AHIPP to decide on its future and it would seem rather premature to talk about its disbanding. We do not yet know what process and timing the Government has in mind for scrapping HIPs or indeed whether they are considering any further reform to the home buying process.

“Grant Shapps committed to a consultation on the removal of HIPs. We feel sure that he will honour that commitment.

“We will be reviewing our ongoing public affairs and PR requirements at our Association meetings this week and take decisions on contracting further services.”

Frank Finch of the PCCB said: “The Board is monitoring the situation very closely, particularly with regard to the implications for all HIP and Search Code subscribers.

“However, until further details emerge as to the timetable for abolition, what if anything replaces them, the Government’s wider intentions as to home buying and selling reform and securing energy efficient homes, the PCCB will continue to enforce compliance with both the HIP and Search Codes.”

He added that he would not be refunding subscriptions.

He had been asked about this by conveyancing specialist Richard Matthias, who called for the body to disband and said the PCCB was “regulating the dead”.