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 Search Code is sponsored by the
Council of Property Search Organisations
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.
Find out more about the PCCB >