If you are wanting to sell your home it's as well to get the necessary paperwork in order before a prospective buyer makes an acceptable offer. As a reminder here is a list of those points which are better dealt with in good time rather than leaving them until matters become urgent because the buyer is pressing for an early exchange (yes, it can still happen!):

1. It's just as well to let your solicitor know you are putting the property on the market so that he has all the necessary title documentation in good time to prepare a draft contract;

2.Whilst a HIP is no longer necessary an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is and you will need to arrange this at an early stage. Your estate agent will advise you but if you have no estate agent remember to arrange it through your solicitor;

3.If you have replaced or installed any window, roof light, roof window, glazed door or conservatory since 1st April 2002 you will need to provide details and a copy of the relevant Building Regulation Approval or (unless its also needed in addition) evidence of certification such as a FENSA certificate;

4.If you have replaced or installed any boiler or hot water storage vessel since 1st April 2002 you will need to supply a Building Regulation Consent or other certification from a HETAS registered installer or OFTEC registered technician or an installer registered with the GAS SAFE REGISTER;

5.If you have carried out any electrical work since 1st January 2005 which requires certification under The Building (Amendment) (No.3) Regulations 2004 or to which any statutory provision applies you will need to supply details and certification or other evidence of compliance;

6.If you have repaired or replaced any part of the roof since 1st October 2008 you will need to supply details and a copy of the relevant Building Regulation Approval.

As you can see there could be some preparatory work to be carried out if you don't have all these documents to hand!

HANSELL WILKES & CO