E1 is above average for energy efficiency — better than most areas in England and Wales.
Energy efficiency in E1 (Tower Hamlets) sits at an average score of 73 out of 100, placing it above the national average. To put this in context, the national average sits at 67. The most common rating band is C, with 26.1% of homes rated A or B and 68.4% in the C or D bands. Meanwhile, 0.5% of homes sit in the F or G bands — the least efficient categories. In practical terms, a C rating suggests reasonably efficient homes, though there is still room for improvement on heating and insulation.
Most of the housing stock here consists of flats. Flats alone account for 83% of all certificated properties — a distinctly urban profile. Around 25% of properties are owner-occupied , while 46% are privately rented and 29% are social housing. That high proportion of rental homes matters — landlords in E1 must comply with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), which currently require at least an EPC E rating. Properties rated F or G cannot legally be let. Gas central heating is the main fuel source for 64% 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 73 to 79 — a 6-point jump that would lift the typical rating to C. If you live in E1 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.
EPC Rating Distribution
Energy Efficiency Score
Potential score if all improvements made: 79 (rating C)
Recommended Improvements
Government funding may be available for some of these improvements. Check grants →
More data — property types, tenure & fuel
Property Types
Tenure
Over 35% of homes in E1 are privately rented — private rental properties often have lower EPC ratings.
Main Fuel Types
Frequently asked questions
What is the average EPC rating in E1?
Homes in E1 have an average EPC rating of C, scoring 73 out of 100 for energy efficiency. That figure comes from 26,809 certificates issued across the district.
To put that in perspective, E1 performs better than most areas in England and Wales — the national average is just 67.
What percentage of homes in E1 are rated F or G?
0.5% of homes in E1 fall into the F or G bands — the lowest energy efficiency ratings. Nationally, the figure is 2.9%.
This is actually better than the national picture, suggesting the housing stock in E1 is in relatively good shape — though any home rated F or G would still benefit enormously from basic upgrades. Landlords should note that F and G rated properties cannot legally be rented out under current MEES rules.