HIPs printers have breathed a collective sigh of relief as the government confirmed that the troubled packs will be rolled out to three-bedroom properties from 10 September 2007.The packs are being introduced on a phased basis as the government claimed this would ensure a smooth transition throughout the housing market.
Nick Twyford, chief executive at FSP, which was recently saved from a fall into administration it blamed on HIPs setbacks, told printweek.com: "This confirmation gets rid of the uncertainty and it couldn't have come at a better time. It's just a shame it didn't happen earlier.
"Everyone has been somewhat hurt by the delay so this is great news for FSP and for the industry," he added.
The move follows the 1 August introduction of the packs for houses with four or more bedrooms.
Greg Smith, managing director at HIPs printer Cats Solutions, told printweek.com: "The confirmation is absolutely fantastic news and the demand for the four-bedroom packs is driving up all the time."
Smith added: "We've managed to do the work working at extra capacity on our existing equipment.
"Traditionally, we run at 75% capacity so the HIP orders have fitted into that. If demand continues to increase, we will give them a separate department."
ImageData chairman David Danforth echoed Smith's thoughts: "Any extension of the HIPs is a benefit to the market as a whole.
"There was always the worry that after all the delays, the government could go back on its word again."
The government has claimed HIPs make life easier for property buyers by having the legal necessities at hand.
However, many estate agents have said the scheme is pointless because it does not include a number of key details.
Source: printweek
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