The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) has renewed its dismay over the government’s plans for Home Information Packs (HIPs), following the release of revised regulations by the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG).

The government has confirmed that there will be three stages for the implementation of HIPs. The first commences on 1 August and applies to properties with four or more bedrooms, followed by a second and third phase covering three bedroom properties and then all other properties as soon as there are enough domestic energy assessors (DEAs) to cope with demand.

Peter Bolton King, chief executive of NAEA, said: “The already chaotic situation surrounding HIPs appears to be getting even worse. The idea of three separate phases will cause complete confusion and delay the introduction of the important energy performance certificate (EPC).

“The NAEA continues to be dismayed that despite criticism of the proposals from parliament, the industry, the media and the public, the DCLG is continuing to push forward with these ill-thought out proposals.”