Guide · Updated 5 October 2026
Property sales packs: the new UK rules, explained
Sellers will soon have to show buyers the key facts about their home the day it's listed. Here's what has been decided, what hasn't, and how to be ready early.
The short answer
Not law yet, but on its way. In June 2026 the government confirmed that sellers and estate agents will have to provide upfront sales packs covering a home's condition, leasehold costs and chain status, backed by digital property logbooks. Changes are phased in from 2026, and legal requirements may follow by the end of this Parliament.
What a sales pack is expected to include
Property condition
Service history, repairs, renovations and an upfront condition assessment.
Leasehold costs
Ground rent, service charges and lease length, if the home is leasehold.
Chain status
Where you are in your own move.
Material information
Council tax band, EPC rating, tenure, bedrooms, utilities and anything a buyer should know.
Proof and paperwork
Invoices, guarantees, warranties, certificates and building regulations sign-offs.
Digital property logbook
A lasting record of the home that passes to the next owner.
The final list will be set out in government guidance. We'll update this page when it is.
The timeline so far
Oct 2025
Government consults on upfront information and binding agreements.
Jun 2026
Reform roadmap published: sales packs confirmed, plus digital property logbooks.
2026
First voluntary, non-legal changes begin.
2027–28
Further changes phased in.
By ~2029
Legal requirements may follow, by the end of this Parliament.
Why getting ready early pays off
Around one in three sales fall through, often because information turns up late. A home with its paperwork ready can be listed quickly, answers buyers' questions straight away, and gives solicitors less to chase. Being ready early helps your home stand out, whenever the rules arrive.
Common questions
Are sales packs a legal requirement yet?
Not yet. In June 2026 the government confirmed that sellers and estate agents will have to provide key information upfront in a sales pack when a home is listed. Some voluntary changes start in 2026 and more follow in 2027–28. The legal requirement may take until the end of this Parliament.
Is this the return of the Home Information Pack?
Similar idea, different approach. Home Information Packs (HIPs) were scrapped in 2010. The new sales packs focus on upfront, digital information such as condition, leasehold costs and chain status, alongside digital property logbooks.
What will a sales pack include?
The government says sales packs will set out a home's condition, leasehold costs and chain status. Industry bodies expect an upfront condition assessment, title details, searches and 'material information' such as council tax band, EPC, tenure and utilities. The exact list will be set out in later guidance.
Does this apply in Scotland?
Scotland already has a Home Report. The reforms described here are for England (with some UK-wide consultation on material information).
How can I prepare now?
Gather what you can prove today: EPC, council tax band, tenure, service history with invoices, guarantees, certificates for building work, and any leasehold costs. Home Bird keeps all of this in one record and turns it into a shareable sale pack.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Homebuying shake-up (June 2026)
- GOV.UK: Home buying and selling reform roadmap
- The Law Society: Home buying and selling reforms
Selling soon? Read our selling a house checklist.
This guide is general information, not legal advice.