Data from 9,906 property assessments shows B26 averaging 62 out of 100, placing it below the national average. For reference, the England and Wales average is 67 — so B26 is below that benchmark. The most common rating band is D, with 5.7% of homes rated A or B and 72.8% in the C or D bands. Meanwhile, 3.2% of homes sit in the F or G bands — the least efficient categories. In practical terms, a rating of D means many homes here lose more heat than average — potentially adding £200-400 per year to energy bills compared to a C-rated home.

Walk through B26 and you will mostly see houses. Flats make up a notable 21% of homes here. Around 66% of properties are owner-occupied and 19% are social housing. Gas central heating is the main fuel source for 89% of homes, which is typical for urban areas across England.

There is genuine room for improvement here. If every recommended upgrade were carried out, the average score could climb from 62 to 80 — a 18-point jump that would lift the typical rating to C. That is a substantial gain, suggesting many homes are missing basic efficiency measures. If you live in B26 and want to reduce your energy bills, start with our guide to loft insulation — it is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make.