Membership of the Association of Home Information Pack Providers (AHIPP) has increased by ten per cent since August, the association announced.

Roll-out of the packs was confirmed in August, but they have been scaled down so that the Home Condition Reports (HCRs) will no longer be compulsory.

This means that the majority of estate agents believe that Home Information Packs (Hips) will now be a waste of time and money, according to the National Association of Estate Agents.

"We did a survey – not that long ago – we had a massive response from our members and 92 per cent said that Hips were a waste of time and money and the new law should be repealed. That has not altered," said Peter Bolton King, chief executive of the National Association of Estate Agents.

"AHIPP may well have had a few more people get involved – but as far as we are concerned – those who have been involved in a trial are saying 'let's see what's going on' – they don't necessarily thing it is a great idea."

The packs will still include an Energy Performance Certificate for the home, something which the government is keen to encourage as it is hoped that this will increase awareness of energy consumption across the country.

One way of gaining better control over your energy consumption is to better insulate your home.

Click here for a selection of double glazed windows and doors from Safestyle.

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Author:  Joanne McCabe