HIPs not affecting the property market: AHIPP

AHIPP has pointed to the increase in the number of new valuations carried out on residential property in January in response to criticism from Shadow Housing Minister, Grant Shapps, that HIPs are stifling the property market.

Last week, research from Connells Survey and Valuation showed that for the fifth consecutive month, monthly valuations activity exceeded that of the same month the year before.

Mike Ockenden, director general of AHIPP, said: "HIPs have enabled buyers and sellers to complete on the purchase and sale of properties more quickly, with greater assurance and less stress and cost. We will work tirelessly in coming months to ensure that the truth about HIPs and their role in the buying and selling process is getting to the people that count - the British electorate."

AHIPP is a trade body representing a wide constituency of members in conveyancing, estate agency, search providers and HIP Providers.