After research showed that the launch of home information packs (Hips) has so far been successful, the government is to make them mandatory for all houses as of next month. Hips were found to usually take no more than ten days to prepare and to cost between £300 and £350, while an independent study found that they have had no lasting negative effects on the market since becoming compulsory for all three or more bedroom houses. As a result, the government has decided to complete the full rollout of Hips and energy performance certificates (EPCs) on December 14th, while the buyers of homes deemed especially energy inefficient will be able to apply for financial aid in making them greener.