Find out more about the PCCB... How to register your firm with the PCCB

The Property Codes Compliance Board (PCCB) is an independent compliance body whose work centres on two industry Codes of Practice; the Search Code and HIP Code. The Codes have delivered quality standards across both the property search and HIP industries since 2006.

The PCCB maintains a register of firms committed to operating in accordance with the Search and Home Information Pack (HIP) industry Codes of Practice, monitors their compliance with the Codes and encourages non-subscribing firms to sign-up to the Codes to promote increased consumer protection.

In view of the Government's decision to suspend the requirement for Home Information Packs (HIPs) with effect from 21 May, the HIP industry has effectively been brought to a standstill and the PCCB has therefore suspended its compliance and registration activities in respect of the HIP Code (see also Latest News on this page). The HIP Code and register of HIP Code subscribers remain on this site for reference. The PCCB still however remains active in relation to both the Search Code and any subsequent developments in the market following the demise of compulsory HIPs and is reviewing its role on an ongoing basis.

The benefits to consumers of choosing a firm registered with the PCCB is that the firm is committed to delivering an agreed standard of consumer service and has agreed to abide with The Property Ombudsman scheme (TPOs) that exists to provide consumers with appropriate redress in case of any unresolved complaint.

The benefits to firms of registering with the PCCB as a subscriber to the Code are that it demonstrates commitment to industry standards, best practice and consumer protection. Firms registered with the PCCB as subscribers to the Code are allowed to display the appropriate Code logo (below) to signify their commitment to the Code.

Ever since the introduction of HIPs in 2007, the home buying and selling process has experienced a period of change and therefore it is important that the Search Code can be readily adapted to reflect these changes and to incorporate improvements identified by the PCCB’s compliance regime. To achieve this, the Code is regularly reviewed in consultation with stakeholders, consumer organisations and the Government. This means aspects of the Code and the Registration Rules can change in response to comments and feedback.

The sponsor is responsible for setting the standards included in the Code, which will be reviewed at regular intervals with key industry bodies to ensure best practice. Any queries on the content of the Search Code should be sent to:

The PCCB seeks to ensure that the information published on its website is up to date and accurate. However, the information on the website does not constitute legal or professional advice and the PCCB cannot accept any liability for actions arising from its use nor be held responsible for the contents of any pages referenced by an external link.

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Revised Search Code and Consultation Announced
The Council of Property Search Organisations (CoPSO), owner of the Search Code of Practice, has announced a revised Code to reflect the new market environment while still maintaining standards. A corresponding consultation with key stakeholders has also been initiated. These developments are as a consequence of the recent suspension of the HIP Regulations meaning that the legal framework governing the provision of local and other property search reports has fallen away. PCCB welcomes the revision, consultation and also the aims to actively promote the Code as a mark of quality with key stakeholders and to add value to the Code by creating a clear differentiation in the market between reliable operators and those whose actions bring the whole industry into disrepute. The full CoPSO press release is copied below.
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PCCB Statement on Suspension of HIPs
In the light of today's Government statement, the PCCB has suspended its compliance activities in respect of the HIP Code with immediate effect. It will also review its role in relation to both the Search Code and any subsequent developments in the market following the demise of compulsory HIPs.
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The Property Ombudsman scheme
adjudicates in disputes between consumers and companies registered with the PCCB.
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The Property Ombudsman