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Press release: 17 October 2007

Growing Support for Industry Search and HIP Codes

Support for the Search and HIP Codes of Practice has been growing at a fast pace since the recent introduction of Home Information Packs (HIPs) into the housing market. 220 firms are now registered with the Property Codes Compliance Board (PCCB) as subscribers to the Codes and this figure is growing every month.

It is estimated that the volume of business transacted by registered firms represents in excess of 80% of the entire UK Personal Search and HIP business. Search firms providing environmental, drainage & water, mining and chancel repair searches are also supporting the Search Code, together with the three National Land Information Service (NLIS) channels.

Each of the Codes provides comprehensive consumer protection including: 

• A code of good practice
• An independent complaints and redress scheme
• Robust insurance provisions

Consumers and businesses are also frequently using the PCCB website (www.propertycodes.org.uk) to seek further information about the Codes and to identify registered firms. The website attracts an average of over 300 unique visitors every day with most visitors linking to the PCCB site via the Government’s own dedicated website (www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk).

Commenting on support for both Codes, PCCB Chairman, Sue Scott said:

‘The growing number of firms registering with the PCCB shows that businesses are recognising the benefits of the Codes which promote industry best practice and provide valuable and robust consumer protection. PCCB will have a risk based compliance monitoring process to ensure firms meet the Codes’ requirements.’

Note to Editors

As at 17 October 2007, 118 firms were registered as subscribers to the Search Code and 78 firms were registered as subscribers to the HIP Code. A further 24 firms subscribe to both Codes.

For further information contact Frank Finch - 07984 228106 - info@propertycodes.org.uk

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