Following the delay to the proposed July 1 implementation date for home information packs (HIPs), revised regulations necessary to deliver energy performance certificates (EPCs) and HIPs were laid on June 11. Initially, from August 1, EPCs and HIPs will only be required on homes with four or more bedrooms. They will then be rolled out to smaller properties once sufficient energy inspectors are in place to meet demand.<br><br>Amidst storms of controversy, the government has acknowledged that 2,000 accredited assessors and inspectors would be needed if EPCs and HIPs were extended to three-bedroom homes, with 3,000 needed to cover the whole market. There are currently more than 1,000 accredited assessors and inspectors. Major HIP providers have committed to providing them within seven working days of a pack being commissioned, with consumers receiving a £100 refund if it is not received in time.<br>