HIP inaccuracy denies 'informed choice'

C-NLIS is doubtful that the range and accuracy of property search information is not be enough for the home buyer to make a fully informed choice.

C-NLIS CEO, Alex Fraser said: “Searches contain vital information - but most HIP providers choose their searches on price grounds, which can affect the quality and depth of the information provided."

Whilst conducting research, C-NLIS asked industry experts for their views on the accuracy and quality of search data. Peter Rodd, conveyancing partner at Boys & Maughan commented: “We have concerns as to the accuracy of some of the information contained in personal searches. Some personal search providers limit planning history to 10 years whereas official searches direct from Local Authority go back much further.”

These concerns were supported by Paul Marsh, the Law Society’s vice-president who said: “I have seen a personal search where the question regarding building control approval was answered ‘until such time as the Council allow us to access the records we are not able to answer the enquiry, therefore enquiry covered by insurance’.

"That was not true, because the Council in question did make the information available, but the personal searcher had to pay for access to the information. The search company avoided making a payment by exploiting the transitional regulations. The seller was left with a HIP that did not comply with the regulations and the buyer, with a useless search."